READING FC boss Paul Clement reflected on his side’s “committed” performance in the stalemate at Wigan Athletic.

Royals held the Latics at DW Stadium on Saturday for only their second clean sheet of the season and first away from home.

A hard-earned point leaves Royals languishing in 20th place in the Championship table ahead of a daunting clash at third-placed Leeds United tomorrow night (7.45pm ko).

But Clements suggests the draw with Wigan gives Royals a solid foundation from which to build.

He said: “I thought it was a good game for a 0-0 with both teams going at it and trying to get the right result.

"Our performance was very committed. It was only our second clean sheet of the season and it came away from home, which is very positive.

"Although they had a couple of good chances and got quite a few crosses into our box, I thought we finished the stronger side. If anyone was going to nick it, I thought we looked the most likely."

Clement’s team selection raised a few eyebrows after making four changes to the side that drew 2-2 with Ipswich Town before the international break with Sone Aluko, Chris Gunter, John Swift and Garath McCleary all returning. Leandro Bacuna and Andy Yiadom dropped to the bench and Mo Barrow and Sam Baldock missed out through illness and injury.

There was a let-off midway through the first half when Nick Powell’s goal was ruled out for offside against Wigan team-mate Reece James.

Royals also hit the post through Yakou Meite moments later before Anssi Jaakkola made vital saves to deny Josh Windass and Gary Roberts.

Darron Gibson and Joe Garner also went close for the hosts, as did Meite for the Royals.

And Clement’s men also produced a late smash-and-grab when an effort from 18-year-old Danny Loader on his league debut deflected over the bar.

Clement added: "We did something a bit different with our system and it showed we could really cause the opposition problems, though did have some weaknesses that they exposed.

“No system is perfect, they all have their strengths and weaknesses. But I was pleased with the players and the way that they took on board the points that we made during the week.

"Although we don’t feel elated because we didn’t win, we do feel satisfied with the effort and commitment put in and we got a deserved point away from home."