Clarke reserves special praise for Feders

Steve Clarke rightly gave most of the plaudits to Adam Federici, after a man of the match performance against Middlesbrough.

The Aussie keeper had to be on hand to make a string of great saves in the second half, as the Royals played out a stalemate with promotion-chasing Boro. It was a point for Clarke’s fith game in charge, and now leaves us four games unbeaten, only conceding four goals.

Speaking to the Official Reading FC website, Clarke said: ‘I thought first half we maybe showed them too much respect. We weren’t aggressive enough or showing enough quality. I said to the players that we thank Adam for the point. Next week it might be another player.’

‘He’s a very safe, solid goalkeeper. He doesn’t make those nervy moments any more nervy. I knew when I came in I was getting a good goalkeeper. I’m pleased with the point against a good Middlesbrough side. Good, tough well-organised and difficult to play against.’

As much as we will say how crucial the clean sheet was, Feders obviously played a massive part in that and the gaffer is rightfully grateful. Despite this, the defensive improvement is there to see though – I doubt we would have picked up that scoreline under Adkins!