Reading FC manager Jose Gomes is expecting Middlesbrough to be a completely different side from the one they faced last season as they prepare to travel up to the north-east this weekend.

Middlesbrough parted company with Tony Pulis at the end of last season and appointed former England and Boro defender Jonathan Woodgate as their new boss.

Results haven't been great so far for Boro with just one win from six league games but Gomes explained their approach has changed a lot.

He said: "They have a completely different way to play compared with last season.

"They have real spirit so we can expect this to be a tough game. They try to play more but if they have any problem, they can play long ball and get the crosses in so we have to be prepared.

"They will start strongly and have a strong midfield dynamic. They have four players that shoot very well from outside the box, so we must protect this.

"Assombalonga and Fletcher try to play in behind and get on the end of crosses.

"We know how they play and we know what we must do. It will be a tough game, like they all are in the Championship, but the most important thing is we are ready for the game."

Last time out, Reading lost to Charlton 2-0 before the two-week international break but Gomes feels the time off has benefitted him and his squad.

He added: "I had two days in Portugal after Charlton. The weather was very good and it was important for us to recover after a really busy month with eight games.

"It is easier for the players to switch off than the coaches as we are always thinking. When I arrived in Portugal after the game, I re-watched the games and Monday I had a break but it is important to try and relax because we have 40 more games in front of us."