CHARLTON'S Andy Reid has taken his fight for fitness to Italy in a bold attempt to be ready for the start of the new season.

The 24-year-old Republic of Ireland international midfielder, who became a figure for ridicule with his constant injury problems last season, has checked in at a health farm – at his own expense – in order to be ready for pre-season training on July 2.

Reid, who cost the club £3million when he signed from Tottenham last summer, had his season repeatedly punctuated by hamstring problems which subsequently necessitated surgery.

He managed just 16 appearances and on many occasions had to be substituted owing to injury.

Manager Alan Pardew said: "Andy is a £3million player who I want fit for the start of the league season. He's a quality player at Championship level."

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