READING FC skipper Liam Moore believes the 'togetherness' manager Jose Gomes has instilled in the squad will be key as they try to avoid relegation from the Skybet Championship, writes Richard Ashton.

Royals are two points and two places above the drop zone following last night's dramatic 2-2 draw at leaders Norwich.

And the inspirational Moore – who played in Saturday's 3-1 defeat at Hull despite his young daughter having to be rushed to hospital in the early hours of the morning – believes Reading can avoid relegation with Gomes at the helm.

He told the Chronicle: "The togetherness will be the reason (if we stay up). It's good management, he's built an atmosphere around the club and we're moving in the right direction.

"He's got a group of players who are ready to fight and are desperate to stay in the league and desperate to learn.

"Many teams over the years have been successful purely on the togetherness of the team, even when their ability has been out-weighed by other teams.

"The togetherness along with the talent we have will put us in a good place."

He continued: "I don't think you can underestimate what he's done in the job, he's brought the players together.

"People talk about management and tactics and set-pieces and this and that, and yes, they all count, but management is about the ability to manage a group of lads and a team and he's done that."

Gomes arrived in December with Royals only out of the bottom three on goal difference, but has proved popular with the fans, a more positive atmosphere clear being fostered.

But he said it is the players who must take the plaudits, commenting: "The players have made the difference. I am not a magician. I arrived, shared my ideas and thank goodness I have very, good, talented and intelligent players who bought into it.

"They have shown they really want to help the club escape this position.

"I've felt a change in atmosphere. The team dynamic, the spirit is stronger."