Madejski eyes Fulham way

Chairman John Madejski has urged Reading to follow the example of Fulham in their bid to avoid relegation on the final day of the season.

The 18th-placed Royals must pick up three points against Derby County on Sunday and hope other results - from Fulham and Birmingham City - go their way to avoid relegation to the Championship.

But after seeing how Fulham have rallied in recent weeks, Madejski believes his players should follow the example of the Cottagers in a bid to save their top-flight status.

"If the status quo remains we will get relegated, so all we can do is play our hearts out for the sake of pride and professionalism," he told the club's official website.

"We must win against Derby. Whether that will be enough to avoid relegation is in the lap of the gods, but at least we'd be able to come out of it with some pride and dignity.

"The pressure is off us and on Fulham instead because they know they have got to win.

"Our destiny isn't in our hands any longer, but we need to perform for the pride of Reading Football Club and everybody associated with us.

"When Fulham came here a few weeks ago they were in the doldrums, but they played with vim and vigour and didn't seem to be feeling any pressure.

"They just came and played, and that's what we have to do at Pride Park."