ANDY Rinomhota is determined to nail down a regular place in the Reading FC first-team.

The 21-year-old midfielder impressed on his full league debut in Royals’ 3-2 win over Bristol City last weekend.

His eye-catching display was one of the highlights of a much-needed victory for under-pressure boss Paul Clement.

He received a rousing ovation from home supporters when he made way for John Swift 12 minutes before the end.

Rinomhota beamed: “I was happy how it went and getting three points was the main thing.

“I was pleased with my performance and it was a shame I couldn’t finish the game, but fatigue set in.

“It was great to get my first league start. I kind of knew in training because my name was in the starting team. I was thrilled and I knew I had to make an impact in order to keep my place. Hopefully I’ve done that.”

Rinomhota has now made six league and cup appearances for Royals in all, having been brought into the senior squad by former boss Jaap Stam.

His progress was hampered by a serious hamstring injury, but he has forced his way back into Clement’s first-team plans.

Now the future looks bright for the Leeds-born midfielder, who joined Reading’s Academy ranks from non-league AFC Portchester in 2015.

“I was introduced to the first team more than a season ago and I was involved under the old manager,” stated Rinomhota, who penned a new three-and-a-half year deal last December.

“Unfortunately I had an injury which set me back but I’m back involved again and delighted to get my first league start.

“Reading has always been a good club for bringing youth through, with players like Liam Kelly and myself. There is always a fight for places so I don’t know if I will play every week, but hopefully there will be many more appearances to come.”

Reading Chronicle:

Leandro Bacuna scored the winning goal against Bristol City.

He added: “I don’t normally play in front of that many fans as my last game was for the Under 23s.

“They gave me a really nice reception when I went off so I can’t thank them enough for that.

“The fans were loud and backed us throughout the game. Players are always fighting together and there is good unity in the squad.”

Rinomhota looks certain to keep his place for the vital home clash with Championship basement boys Ipswich Town this Saturday (3pm ko) when Reading will be bidding for successive wins in the league for the first time this season.

Clement hailed the youngster’s performance against Bristol City saying: “I thought he played really well. He’s had to be patient. He’s a fantastic professional and boy. Every day he’s really committed to learning and giving his best. He’s a credit to the club, the Academy and his family.”

He continued: “I know when he came on in his other appearances he didn’t have any family there. They were short appearances, so he was surprised.

“But his mum and dad were there on Saturday and he got a nice ovation when he went off which was thoroughly deserved.”

However, Clement is facing a number of injury concerns ahead of tomorrow’s clash with Jon Dadi Bodvarsson ruled out for six weeks and fellow striker Yakou Meite facing a late fitness test.

Ipswich sit bottom of the table, but Clement predicts tomorrow’s clash will be their toughest game of the season yet.

READ: Ex-Swansea City manager linked with Royals hotseat.