Brian McDermott believes his recent record of two Premier League scalps in the FA Cup, Burnley and Liverpool, show he has the credentials to be given the manager's job at Reading full time. Chairman John Madejski is set to return next week from a business trip to Tenerife, and will have been given plenty to think about as he looks for a successor to Brendan Rodgers, who was sacked in December after failing to rekindle the success enjoyed under Steve Coppell.

"Sometimes in life you get an opportunity and at this moment, I feel it is my time," McDermott said.

"The circumstances now are perfect for myself.

"We have got really good people here, and have a culture of how we want to play.

"Since the first day I was on the line, I have really enjoyed it.

"It suits me, the staff and players have been terrific.

"I am lucky to have a club like this.

"It is a real honour to manage it."

The former Arsenal winger reflected: "What makes me laugh is that people think I have just walked off the street.

"I have been around for 30-odd years, and been at Reading for 10.

"I know the staff, the chairman and the players.

"Whatever the chairman and the board decide will be it, I just have to wait to see what happens.

"I am sure something will happen shortly."