Reading forward Josh Barrett is relishing the chance to play an important role in the coming season.

The 21-year-old capped off a fine first half performance against Europa League holders Chelsea with a delightful lob to round off a slick Reading counter attack.

Barrett told the Reading Chronicle that the confidence comes from Jose Gomes trust in his young players.

“We all have massive confidence and I think that has come from the gaffer. Everyone knows that we all have a chance and we have to take that with both hands. When you’re out there, you need to do everything to make sure we take our chance.”

“We have worked very hard throughout pre-season. We have won a lot of games throughout pre-season which last year we didn’t win any games.

“The step forward from last pre-season has been massive and we will bring that onto the pitch.”

Although the Royals have had a somewhat difficult pre-season in the transfer window, Barrett said that the side had not lost the momentum which ensured they stayed in the Championship last campaign.

“We ended last season so well on a big positive with the new gaffer coming in and bringing something different.

“He keeps changing things around and helps us change the we play. When we press, we press as a team and we all want to work for each other as a team.”

“It’s exciting now. We’re all raring to get going.”