Reading welcome West London side Fulham to the Madejski Stadium this afternoon as they look to continue their improved run of form.

The Royals are unbeaten in their last four games in the league, and have really turned a corner recently after their dismal start to 2016.

The Berkshire side produced an entertaining display in their previous 4-3 victory over Charlton Athletic, with their three new boys Yann Kermorgant, Ola John, and Denis Rakels all getting on the scoresheet.

Fulham, however, have been far from appetising after only winning once in their last four games. The Cottagers poor performances have seen them sink down the table.

Manager Slavisa Jokanovic will be anxious to boost Fulham’s confidence as they lie only seven points clear of the drop zone.

Games are coming thick and fast and Fulham probably need the points more than Reading to keep their Championship status alive.

However, Royals boss Brian McDermott will be looking for a strong finish to the season and will be eager for his players to continue their momentum.

FootballLeagueWorld writer Ashley Williams identifies THREE things to look out for in this afternoon's game…

1) Fulham’s poor away record

Fulham have won just three times on the road in the league this season, with their last victory coming last month when they defeated QPR 3-1 at Loftus Road.

Their two other victories came against Championship strugglers Bristol City and Rotherham United.

Jokanovic needs to see his side put a performance together as they have some tough games this month against the likes of Burnley, Birmingham City, and a relegation showdown with Bristol City.

2) Reading’s signings looking promising

Manager McDermott will be relieved that his new signings are beginning to perform for him.

Rakels, Kermorgant and John put in a fine display against Charlton last weekend and helped their side by producing the goals for the victory.

The club are now seeing the best of John over the past few weeks after a slow start to his Reading career, but the Dutchman is clearly showing why he was signed for the club.

The same goes for Kermorgant.

After taking five games to bag a goal for the Royals, the Frenchman was the best player on the pitch last weekend after scoring a brace in the victory over Charlton.

Finally, the Latvian striker Rakels is showing that he can compete in the squad after beginning to find some form.

McDermott is likely to start all three players at the weekend and he will be hoping they continue their fine performances.

3) Are Fulham in trouble if they slip up?

The West London club really need to get their act together, as they are struggling at the moment.

The Cottagers are just two places above the drop zone and have only recorded three wins in their last 20 matches.

This is a real cause of concern for Jokanovic, who earlier this week issued that he is confident that the club will remain a Championship side next season despite their on-field troubles.

The Serbian boss is certainly not replicating his winning mentality with Watford last season, and enduring a miserable start to his Fulham career.

A loss to Reading would really raise the anxiety levels around the club which would put them in trouble.

Reading and Fulham fans… what do you think the score will be? Can Reading carry on their run? Are Fulham in trouble? Let us know your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!