JAAP Stam is busy keeping one eye on Reading's promotion showdown with Leeds United.

Royals went into a fortnight's international break on a high thanks to a 2-0 victory at rivals Sheffield Wednesday last time out.

That puts Stam's men on course for a play-off finish as they are fifth in the table with a six-point lead over Fulham in seventh, with eight fixtures remaining.

But Reading's ability to hold onto a top-six spot will come under severe threat again when they host fourth-placed Leeds United on their return to Championship action on April 1 (5.30pm ko, live Sky Sports).

Stam, whose side were beaten 2-0 at Elland Road in December, said: “It’s nice to go into the international break after a win, especially against a side like Sheffield Wednesday.

“Next we have Leeds who are a quality team doing very well.

“They are close competition for us so it would be nice to get a good result against them.

“We are already thinking about the game and we will see how everybody is after the international matches.”

Reading Chronicle:

Reading manager Jaap Stam.

Stam suffered a fall-out with Leeds boss Garry Monk after their defeat at Elland Road.

Royals enjoyed 77% possession on the day but failed to find the net as goals from Chris Wood and Souleymane Doukara secured three points for the hosts.

That led to chants of 'boring, boring Reading' from the Leeds faithful followed by a stern response from Stam, who was critical of the home side's approach, saying: “In terms of way of playing, it's not my cup of tea.”

Monk immediately hit back, stating: “I felt a bit embarrassed for him, we were happy with our performance.”

Reading Chronicle:

Leeds United manager, Garry Monk.

But any lingering animosity appears to be water under the bridge, with Stam staying focused on his own players, many of whom are away on international duty.

“We know it’s not going to be easy but we will give it a good go,” added the Dutchman.

“The players have put themselves on the map this season because of how they have performed.

“We’ve worked so hard to get into that top six.”

A host of Reading players are currently on international duty and will return to Madejski Stadium next week.