Brian relishing Old Trafford trip

Reading boss Brian McDermott is relishing his first trip to Old Trafford as a manager, also saying it will benefit his players in the long run.

The Royals travel to Manchester to take on Sir Alex Ferguson’s side in the fifth round of the FA Cup on Monday, but more in hope than expectation. However, McDermott said will not be too concerned about the result in two days, rather his players gaining experience of playing on such a big stage, which will be crucial in the Premier League run-in.

Speaking to the Reading Chronicle, Brian said: ‘It’s going to be a great game for everybody and a superb occasion. We can’t wait for it come around. It’s also going to be a benefit to us that we’re going there in the FA Cup because it will prepare us for the Premier League game at Old Trafford next month.’

‘We want to do well in the cup but our biggest aim is to stay in the Premier League and build from there. Some of our players have played at Old Trafford before but others haven’t so it’s important that everyone is comfortable playing in the environment of a huge stadium like Old Trafford.’