Reading striker Nelson Oliveira has spoken out after he made his return to first-team football at the weekend against Brentford after spending time out with an injury.

The January signing has been a crucial figure in the Royals fight against relegation and he showed his affection for his adoptive club.

Posting on Instagram alongside a series of photographs from the clash, writing: "Very happy and grateful to be back playing at Madjeski where i always feel so much love and support. Massive 3 points and we go again on Friday."

The Royals picked an invaluable three points last weekend in their fight against relegation, beating Brentford 2-1 at the Madjeski stadium.

Two early strikes from Yakou Meite were enough to see off the Bees and take them four points clear of the second-tier drop zone.

Jose Gomes' side will now be confident of avoiding the drop but face a tough run-in, starting with a trip to Bristol City on Friday lunchtime before taking on West From, Middlesbrough and Birmingham City.

The verdict

It can not be underestimated just how important Oliveira has been in the second-tier's relegation battle.

Reading looked to be sleep walking towards the drop but Gomes' decision to bring him to the club has completely galvanised the club from top to bottom.

Securing him permanently will surely be a summer priority and given his above post, he would surely be very open to that move.