Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is a big fan of Capital One Cup opponents Reading.

Last season's npower Championship winners have yet to win in the league, but are one victory away from a place in the Capital One Cup quarter-finals.

"Reading have made appointments from within the club well over the years," Wenger told Arsenal Media.

"You have to congratulate Brian McDermott for promotion last year, I believe he made a miracle basically.

"When you get to the Premier League, the level of expectation is to stay and I feel they have a chance. McDermott has the qualities to achieve that.

"We expect a challenge and we know Reading will give absolutely everything when they play against us.

"Reading have done very well in their scouting. They are one of the examples of a club not spending money and living within their resources.

"I always respect that. There is some quality work behind their success."