Owner: We have stronger squad than last year

You know it and we know it, Anton; the squad is much better than last year’s and we were in a lower division!

The Royals have only made three additions this summer, despite owner Anton Zingarevich claiming there would be seven coming in. However, the three that have been added in Drenthe, Bridge and Williams, have improved the squad greatly, a point which the Russian hinted at.

Speaking to the Official Reading FC website, Anton said: ‘The squad is quite big right now and bids may come in for some of our players, but we will definitely have a strong squad this year – perhaps even stronger than last season in the Premier League.’

‘That will be vital if we are to achieve our aim, which is to get promoted and, if possible, win the title. Firstly we`ve added to the squad, bringing in Royston Drenthe, Wayne Bridge and Danny Williams – all international players who have already done so much in their careers.’