READING FC's veteran striker Yann Kermorgant has emerged as the club's most valuable player this season, according to statistics.

The 35-year-old Frenchman, who joined the Royals from Bournemouth in January 2016, has already been touted as a candidate for Reading's player of the season.

Kermorgant has been Royals' boss Jaap Stam's go to man to lead the line this campaign, but has fulfilled several roles across the pitch.

He excels in holding up the ball as well as filling in defensively, clearing dangerous crosses and covering for the Royals' back line.

Having chipped in 10 goals for Reading this year, eclipsing last season's total, Kermorgant has scooped an impressive five man of the match awards, more than any of his team-mates.

Kermorgant scored an impressive free-kick to help Reading beat Cardiff City 2-1 in January

The striker has also racked up three assists in his 27 starts for the Royals and has an average rating of 7.28/10, according to www.whoscored.com

The site states Liam Moore as the club's second most valuable player with an average rating of 7.19 and an astonishing pass completion rate of 85.6 per cent.

Speaking about Kermorgant's influence, midfielder John Swift recently said: "He's a big influence in the changing room with with ability and the experience he has.

“His ability in the air is better than most of the boys in the team.

"When he goes up front he’s effective but when he drops deep to almost a centre back he’s even more effective, he wins so many headers.

“He’s doing so well and if we can keep him fit I know he’ll keep performing for us.”

Kermorgant has made 54 appearances for Reading FC, scoring 14 goals.