Reading FC manager Veljko Paunovic provided insight into his relationship with Royals owner Dai Yongge as questions around his and Reading's future surround the club.

Monday's 2-2 draw with Derby County plunged Reading even further into the relegation battle and led to intense scrutiny from supporters as Paunovic's side threw away a two-goal lead for the third time this season.

Mr Dai who was in attendance at the SCL for November's 1-1 draw with Nottingham Forest has also come under some criticsm in recent months as the points deduction and transfer limitations leaves Reading in a vulnerable position.

Asked about his relationship with the Chinese businessman, Paunovic said: 

"The owner is positive. He is keen to win, he wants to look for solutions and of course, he is not the happiest man in the world right now given our situation but he is positive, very optimistic and is a very energetic personality.

"I like that so we get along very well together. I feel his support and his energy as fuel for me to help do what I want to do here and I must say we will continue working with our approach, but there will be difficult decisions to make when the time comes."

Paunovic and his team head to Kidderminster on Saturday to face the Harriers in the FA Cup third round.

It is understood that Dai Yongge and Reading intend to excercise more patience with Paunovic than they have done with previous managers in part due to the difficult circumstances of this season - including the Covid issues, injury crisis, and points deduction. But it is certainly possible that defeat to the National League North side could cause a rethink.