Reading defender Michael Morrison explained there has been an increase in intensity since Mark Bowen took over the reins.
Bowen replaced Jose Gomes as manager and has been unbeaten in his two games as boss in two tricky matches.
Morrison admitted there have been changes to training and an approach to games and the centre-half says they have been reaping the rewards.
He said: "It is about getting the mentality of the whole team right and being a bit nastier and I think that is what Mark has brought in a little bit more.
"Being more streetwise as a team and being harder to play against and if you do that, there are chances there, and with the talent we have got we are always going to be dangerous on the break.
"Our style of play, going a bit more direct, allows you to be more aggressive and assertive.
"It gives us more of a platform and makes teams look the other way and I think there is an improvement and I think the mentality of the football club is changing under Mark."
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