Reading forward Sam Smith said he is ‘proud to be a part’ of this current side after scoring a crucial goal in a 2-0 win over Bristol Rovers on Tuesday evening.

The 25-year-old rose through the ranks in Berkshire but had to go to Cambridge United to prove his quality, returning in the summer and becoming a mainstay in the attack under Ruben Selles.

12 goals in 31 appearances is a very strong return, even earning himself a nomination for League One Player of the Month after scoring in four successive matches during March.

His powerful header in the opening 10 minutes set the Royals on their way at the Memorial Stadium, with Lewis Wing adding a stunning second direct from a free-kick on the brink of half-time.

“It’s been a difficult season,” the forward said after the win. “The support from the fans has been outstanding, especially for me being here when I was younger. In a way, it’s almost brought the fans, players and club together. It has been special to be a part of it and at the end of the day, I’m just proud to be a part of it.

“Winning games, it doesn’t matter what year it is or what team you’re playing, that’s what we set out to do. I think with all the setbacks we’ve had this season it’s just a bit more special.”

Now nine points clear of the relegation zone with three matches remaining, albeit with a better goal difference but having played more games than some of those around them, Reading look set to keep their League One status.

Heading to promotion-chasing Barnsley on Saturday, Smith insists the job is not yet done, especially after receiving so many knock-backs throughout the season in the way of points deductions.

“Even now the table looks well but we don’t know what is going to happen so even though we’re celebrating in there and the fans are celebrating, there are still three games to go so anything can happen. We’re going to commit ourselves the way we have and hopefully take more points.”