THE international break is over and Reading FC get back to Championship football with a tricky trip to Leeds on Saturday.

Royals are without a win in five league games ahead of the journey to Yorkshire.

Brian McDermott was on local radio this week saying he thinks Reading will turn things around. The former Royals boss believes anything is possible, despite Jaap Stam’s side languishing in 20th spot.

Leeds are currently fifth in the Championship table, despite winning just two of their last six games.

Reading’s recent record is by no means any better, but this could encourage us to find an extra gear and recapture the form of last year.

Leeds’ last game ended in a 3-0 defeat away to rivals Sheffield Wednesday. They were played off the park in a comprehensive defeat against a Wednesday side with an orthodox 4-4-2 shape.

This, of course, will only add to the calls from Reading fans for Stam to change his trusted formation.

Leeds’ talismanic centre-back Pontus Jansson had to be substituted late in the defeat at Sheffield Wednesday due to a shoulder injury. He did not take part in Sweden’s World Cup qualifiers and therefore is a doubt for Saturday.

Reading need a boost, they need one or two of their stand-out players to shine at Elland Road. It’s as though this team needs reminding of the qualities they possess.

Stam’s men are not sitting in 20th position due to a lack of ability. It is a lack of self belief, confidence and determination that is holding them back.

I wouldn’t like to suggest Stam has lost the dressing room. I hope he hasn’t, but he needs a win sooner rather than later or we could see his position becoming untenable.

A comprehensive win at Leeds would silence the critics for the time being. A good win would give the fans and crucially the players a much-needed confidence boost.

I can see Royals kicking on and making something of this campaign if we get one or two decent victories over the next few games. A win on Saturday could be the perfect kick-start we need.