Reading have had a borderline horrific start to the new Championship campaign.
Having not won a game, the start has been softened slightly courtesy of two draws recorded and two points on the board.
Despite a spirited performance on the opening weekend of the season against Derby, results have gone against them.
That includes drawing away to Blackburn Rovers, having been in a commanding position, leading the game 2-0.
The highlight of their season would have to be a 93rd-minute penalty to snatch a draw at Aston Villa.
But poor form came back with a vengeance, letting another lead slip at home to Sheffield Wednesday, before eventually losing last weekend.
The two weeks off will allow the Royals to take stock of the half-dozen set of fixtures ahead of what is going to be a busy period between now and the next international interval in October.
With that said, here is one winner and one loser from Reading’s season so far after the first batch of fixtures before the current international break.
A summer arrival from relegated Barnsley, the right-back has arguably been one of Reading’s better performers this season.
Looking to get up the pitch and join in the attacks, the 26-year-old is equally adept at getting back to clear his lines.
Moving back to the Championship might have been a big step, but he has taken to it like a duck to water.
Paul McShane has looked well below par so far this season.
Reading found themselves in the unfamiliar position of being 2-0 against Blackburn Rovers before McShame gave away two penalties, which were duly converted.
The 32-year-old has since been dropped from the starting XI by Paul Clement.
It remains to be seen if he will be able to find his way back to the first-choice pack or have to sit it out on the bench until an opportunity presents itself.