Paul Clement has admitted that a second successive pre-season defeat for Reading has left his side “a little bit behind” in their preparations for the upcoming Championship campaign.
The Royals lost 4-2 at League One side AFC Wimbledon on Saturday, a week after succumbing to a 2-1 defeat at non-league Eastleigh.
Following the loss to Wimbledon, Clement expressed concern over Reading’s performances so far, though he stressed that the team will be ready come the start of the season.
“Every game is an opportunity for the players to step up,” the 46-year-old, who made widescale changes in the game, told the Reading Chronicle.
“There’s lots of competition for places, they’ve got to show they’re better than their colleague for their role. Competition is healthy, it’s a good thing.
“I would say we’re a little bit behind where we need to be, we’ve got four weeks to go – we’ve got to get going. We’re going to be ready for the first game of the season, no question about it.”
Reading launch the Championship season with a home clash against Derby County on Friday, August 3.