Reading manager Paul Ince has set his side a target of 45 points to reach in their quest to remain afloat in the Championship, speaking to the Reading Chronicle ahead of this evening's clash against Norwich City.

The Royals have already tallied up 21 points from a possible 33 going into this midweek game, making a positive start to a busy schedule ahead of the World Cup with a 3-1 victory against Huddersfield Town at the weekend.

This solid start comes as a surprise for many, with pundits from across the EFL tipping the Berkshire outfit to go down, no real surprise considering their 21st-place finish and the fact they lost some key players in the summer including John Swift.

 

 

Also needing to work within transfer limits during the summer, their job of replacing these important players was made even harder but they managed to enjoy a successful window regardless of that, with off-field changes also helping their cause.

Even the most optimistic supporters of the Berkshire outfit will be surprised to see their side sat in third place though - and sections of their fanbase are now gearing themselves up for what could be an exciting season at the Select Car Leasing Stadium.

But manager Ince is keen to keep his players' feet on the ground at this stage, setting them a target he wants them to meet as quickly as possible.

The former England international said: "We can’t get complacent. We’ve got to play Watford, West Brom, Norwich, it can change.

"We have to get to 45 points as soon as possible."

The Verdict:

50 points would probably be a better target - but 45 will probably seem quite a lot closer for the Royals' players considering they are nearly halfway there and that's why Ince has probably set that total.

45 may not be enough to keep them afloat in the division - but if they can reach it by March or early April, that should give them the confidence and breathing space to go on and secure their survival.

It would be a real achievement if they were to stay up considering the adversity they have faced, not just with transfer restrictions they have needed to contend with but the injury problems too.

Considering they can only have 25 registered players in their squad, a few injuries could leave them light in some areas and their defence looks particularly vulnerable at this point.

Keeping players fit will be crucial to where they finish this season - and this is why they will be concerned about having Baba Rahman, Naby Sarr, Scott Dann, Liam Moore, Shane Long and Femi Azeez all out at this stage - with Andy Yiadom a doubt for tonight's game as well.