READING FC boss Jaap Stam has rallied fans to head to Madejski Stadium tomorrow evening as the Royals prepare for a crucial play-off tie against Leeds United, writes Bethen Hughes.

The Dutchman questioned fans’ loyalty to the club and insisted supporters should attend tomorrow’s match unless they have a reasonable excuse.

It comes following a bitter feud between Stam and Leeds’ boss Garry Monk because the latter suggested Reading’s style of play was boring after the reverse fixture at Elland Road.

Reading suffered a 2-0 defeat despite dominating possession throughout the match and Stam will be keen on getting revenge when he hosts Monk’s men tomorrow (Saturday) evening.

But Stam, whose future is up in the air following reported interest from West Ham United, insisted Reading can overcome fourth placed Leeds with fans’ support.

“It’s an important game for both sides,” he asserted.

“It will be tough. They are a very physical side.

“We need everyone at the stadium.

“If you don’t come and you don’t have an excuse then are you really a fan?

“People say the way were played was boring but we had 80 per cent of the ball so I don’t know who is boring.

"It's about winning the game and they won with a bit of luck.”

Should the Royals overcome Leeds at Madejski Stadium (5.30pm ko) Stam’s side will leapfrog the Whites into fourth place.

But reflecting on his own experience playing against Leeds, Star conceded it will be tough fixture for both teams.

He continued: “"It's never easy to play against Leeds, I know that from when I played at Manchester United. They are a quality team.

"We both want to end up in the top six so it's an important game for both of us but if we win or lose this game, there are seven very important games after this one.

"They beat Brighton so it's not going to be easy. I've got the utmost respect for them in what they been doing this season because they've done a great job."

Star confirmed captain Paul McShane will be available for tomorrow’s match but long-term absentees Callum Harriott, Stephen Quinn, Tiago Illori and Deniss Rakels will all miss out.

The Whites, who sit just one place above the Sky Bet Championship, were dealt an injury scare when star striker Chris Wood took a knock on international duty for New Zealand earlier in the week.

Striker Yann Kermorgant suggested earlier this week that Leeds will struggle without their star man.

Tomorrow's match will be broadcast live on Sky Sports.