Tom Mcintyre discusses how the mood amongst fans has given the team a 'massive boost'

Reading are the form team in the Championship, having not seen defeat since 7th December, a run stretching to nine games.

Speaking after the side’s 2-0 win over Blackpool in the FA Cup Third Round replay, the centre defender is very grateful for the fans’ support.

He said: “To have the fans behind us every game, no matter where it is they really get behind us and we can hear them, it gives us a massive boost.

“I’ve been in the crowd a few times this season as well, I really enjoyed that and getting amongst it.”

Mark Bowen made 11 changes for the game against the Tangerines last night, including bringing the 21 year-old in after his injury.

The Reading supporter felt: “[There] was a bit of pressure on us being a young squad but the boys were excellent.

“It’s brilliant to keep the momentum going, although there’s been quite a few changes it’s been good and keeps the spirits up.

“Confidence breeds confidence so everyone’s buzzing so hopefully we can keep going.”

Having played eight times for the first team, he is a shining light to fellow academy graduates yet to break into the first team.

One such was Jeriel Dorsett, with the 17 year-old making his debut off of the bench at Bloomfield Road.

The former season ticket holder was proud of his fellow academy players, with eight of them starting the game at Blackpool:

“It was great for Jeriel; he has had some bad injuries so I am buzzing for him.

“I just wanted to try and talk as much, I maybe a bit more experienced and played a few more games than Andre [Burley] so it is just about talking and passing on what I know.”

Next up for Reading is a tough trip to Millwall.

“It will be a tough game- similar to today with long balls - but the boys have been great the last few weeks so there’s no doubt they’ll do a good job.

“Whoever it is we will always go in thinking we are going to win so I don’t think it’s an issue who we are playing.”