Reading FC conceded some really sloppy goals last season, and bolstering the defence will be high on the list of new manager Jaap Stam.

A tough, no-nonsense defender in his playing days, Stam will look to add some steel and passion into a back line that lacked leadership and organisation at times this season.

Anton Ferdinand was released at the end of the season, leaving the Royals with just Irish international Paul McShane and England Under-21 international Jake Cooper, as well as Niall Keown as centre back options.

In the full-back positions Jordan Obita had a sub-par, injury-hit season and Andrew Taylor will be returning to Wigan after his loan spell expired.

Chris Gunter has been performing relatively well for Wales at Euro 2016 but has failed to replicate that form at club level, and Tennai Watson isn't ready for the first team just yet.

Here is the dream defence under Jaap Stam at Reading next season........

 

LB - Jordan Obita

The young full-back has been capped by England at youth level and earned interest from the likes of Liverpool and Arsenal in his younger years.

His progress hasn't been as fast as Reading fans would have hoped over recent years, but he's still young and has undoubted talent.

Injuries have prevented him from having an extended run in the side of late, but if he can stay fit then he could be a real force next season.

 

CB - Paul McShane

The Irishman missed out on the Republic of Ireland's 23 man Euro 2016 squad, which went down well with Reading fans who will pray he is 100% fit for the new season.

McShane brings a wealth of experience to what is quite a young Reading back line, and put in some excellent performances for the Royals at the back last season when fit.

The club captain will be key to Jaap Stam's defence for next season.

 

CB - Jake Cooper

The young centre back has attracted interest from several Premier League clubs, with a series of competent performances at the heart of the Reading defence last season.

He first came into the side after a brilliant performance against Everton in the Capital One Cup earlier in the season, and has nailed down a starting role ever since.

If he can cut the errors out of his game, then he has the potential to become a Premier League defender.

 

RB - Emilio Nsue

The Boro full back started out his career as a winger, but was converted by Aitor Karanka into a more-than-capable full back.

Nsue helped Boro to promotion from the Championship last season, but could be replaced by Karanka with a more experienced right back now they are in the Premier League.

If so he could be a perfect fit for the Reading back line, and his pace and willingness to cross the ball could provide the Royals with another option.