Reading boss Brendan Rodgers has likened Royals centre back Alex Pearce to his Chelsea and England counterpart John Terry, after the defender's stalwart performance at the weekend against the Premier League side.

The Scotland under 21 international played a big part in keeping the visitors at bay for 89 minutes of Saturday's 2-2 draw, and despite his unfortunate injury time own goal that completed Chelsea's comeback, Rodgers was full of praise for the man from Oxford.

"He was outstanding on Saturday - Alex looked like a mini John Terry.

"I've said it before, he reminds me of John in a lot of ways; the same number - they've got 26 on their backs - and the same hunger to be better. I thought he was excellent."

Pearce made several key interventions during the 90 minutes, including a miraculous challenge to deny Salomon Kalou on the goal line with five minutes remaining, but Rodgers was also quick to commend the youngster for his all-round footballing ability.

"He looked strong but he also played football," said Rodgers.

"I've been around and seen lots of young British defenders and they're all told to get rid of the ball - I try and get them to pass it.

"He did his defending bit and then - when he had time - he passed the ball. He was outstanding."

Whilst Pearce was rather humbled by his manager comparing him to one of England's best, he was more upbeat about being entrusted with the captain's armband on Saturday - as he had been at previous times during pre-season.

With Rodgers holding back on announcing his skipper for the season until this week, Alex says he would be delighted to accept if he was offered the armband, and believes he is capable of fulfilling the role.

"Obviously if the gaffer asked me to be captain then I'd grab it with both hands," said Pearce.

"As an individual and as a player, if you're offered the captaincy then he must trust you to do the job."

Video highlights from the game are on the Reading FC Player now.