Reading boss Brian McDermott doesnt fear fatigue

Despite the congested festive fixtures, McDermott named an unchanged side for the last two games, a goalless draw against Swansea and a vital 1-0 success at home to West Ham, and will not be frightened to stick with the same XI at White Hart Lane.

"We are used to playing so many games from the Championship so it isn't really relevant to me. They love playing so we are getting results and sticking with the team, that is how I do it," he said.

"At the moment we want to pick up points, that's what makes people happy around here."

Spurs are on a good run, losing only one of their last eight matches. Winger Gareth Bale has been in scintillating form, but will miss the game after picking up a fifth caution of the season in Saturday's 2-1 win at Sunderland for simulation.

But McDermott is not expecting an easier game with the Wales international absent.

"Gareth Bale is a top, top player, but they are not a one-man team, they have got players all over the shop now, terrific players," he said.

Reading struggled at the start of the season following their Championship title success last year and were completely outplayed when Spurs won 3-1 at the Madejski Stadium back in September. McDermott believes his side have acclimatised to the league since then and wants a better display in the return clash.

"I obviously didn't learn too much because that was earlier in the season but we are learning now," he said.

"They played well that day and we didn't really compete the way we need to compete, but that was a long time ago and we need to make sure we go to White Hart Lane, get it right and see what the outcome will be."

Source: PA

Source: PA