READING FC forward Hal Robson-Kanu could face a lengthy spell on the sidelines after picking up an injury on international duty.

The 26-year-old rolled his ankle during Wales' 2-0 victory over Andorra in Tuesday night's 2016 Euro qualifier.

He attempted to run off the injury but was eventually replaced by Dave Edwards.

Robson-Kanu joined Royals teammate Chris Gunter in the post-match celebrations in Cardiff after Wales reached their first major finals for 58 years, though he was on crutches and wore a protective boot.

He was due to be assessed by Reading's medical department yesterday, but it is believed he could be out of action for several weeks.

The news will be a blow to Royals boss Steve Clarke whose promotion-chasing side face three crucial Championship matches within the next week.

Reading host Charlton Athletic at Madejskii Stadium this Saturday (3pm ko), travel to Rotherham United on Tuesday (7.45pm ko) and then to Fulham on Saturday week (1.30pm ko).

However, Robson-Kanu is confident the squad will cope in his likely absence.

“I think competition for place is always important,” stressed Robson-Kanu. “It's about a group of players as you need a strong squad to win games, especially in this league because there are so many of them.

“We're in a good place right now and we want to keep this going.

“The atmosphere in the dressing room is really good and it all comes from the manager and his staff.

“There is a real desire for success here that starts form the top and filters down.

“A lot of hard work has gone in behind the scenes. The manager has been implementing his ideas since last season and it's starting to work.”

Reading have climbed to third in the table after winning five of their last six league matches.

Clarke will welcome back a host of players from international duty today (Thursday) including Paul McShane (Republic of Ireland), Danny Williams (USA), Ali Al Habsi (Oman), Paolo Hurtado (Peru) plus Jamaica duo Michael Hector and Garath McCleary.