Royals boss Steve Coppell was pleased with the 1-1 draw against Premier League opposition this afternoon but admitted that a good pre-season campaign will count for nothing unless we start well next week.

"We were good going forward in stages today, although a bit erratic with our passing," he told the his first post-match press horde of the season.

"It was a friendly and you can't take too much from it - but it capped off what has been a decent preparation for us.

"The players have applied themselves well and we can look back on the last five weeks with satisfaction.

"We just have to hope we're ready for when we go to Forest next week, and the full squad will be tested straight away with three games in the first six days.

"We're in a decent position but this is an anxious time of year and you can't take anything for granted."

The winner was scored by a young Academy product making his first Madejski Stadium appearance as a first team player - and Coppell was impressed by Jem Karacan's input in the centre of midfield.

"Reserve team football is not what it should be and the loan system can help develop players.

"Jem definitely got bigger, stronger and better during his loans with Bournemouth and Millwall last season.

"He's a very determined young man with a great engine, and he showed that in his performance.

"We're very hopeful that he'll play a role this season."

A full interview with Steve is live on Reading World now as he discusses Nicky Shorey's future, the Villa game and more. See our free preview clip.