Ulises in bullish mood

Ulises De La Cruz feels Reading are well placed to push for Europe.

The Royals have confounded their pre-season critics by adapting seamlessly to life in the Premiership and are well placed in sixth with 12 games remaining in the campaign.

The fear of relegation is a distant memory, with the club perched on the magical 40-point mark, and Ecuadorian defender De La Cruz says the mood in the camp is extremely positive.

"The team's mentality is maintained," De La Cruz told Sky Sports News. "Everybody's mentality is strong.

"In training everyone is looking strong."

Reading face Aston Villa and Middlesbrough this month and De La Cruz feels these games afford The Royals the chance to cement their position in the table.

"Reading is playing the teams of the same level, so it is a very good opportunity for us," he noted.