Reading FC manager Jose Gomes warned his players they must take all three points against in-form Preston North End today (3pm ko).

Royals’ final push for survival begins as they start a begin a gruelling 21 days against Alex Neil's Lillywhites at Madejski Stadium.

Gomes was boosted by the fact that Andy Rinomhota and Sam Baldock could return to action after spells on the sidelines.

They remain without hitman Nelson Oliveira however as he continues his recovery after a serious hamstring injury he sustained against Ipswich Town.

High-flying Preston have won all six of their previous away games, but Gomes stressed: “First it’s Preston, but then it’s six games in 21 days. It’s full of games in April. We’re ready for that.

“They are in good form so we have to beat them as a team.

That will be tough, as they are full of confidence, but we also know that we need the three points. Draws are not enough.”

Royals have won two of their last three fixtures but sit just one place above the dreaded Championship drop-zone.

20th-placed Millwall have a game in hand against but are on a barren-run of four league defeats on the spin.

Gomes’ men could climb as high as 19th place with a win, should other results go their way.

And the manager continued: “A lot is left to be decided, and we are trying to find the best for us. We really believe that we will achieve what we want.

“Our players have improved a lot, the team dynamic is better. The number of fans at Madejski Stadium is increasing – things are positive around us.

“And now we need to give the club what it deserves – to win, and stay in a safe position.”