READING FC defender Michael Morrison stressed Royals reached a new level in their brave 2-1 FA Cup defeat to Premier League side Sheffield United.

George Puscas cancelled out David McGoldrick’s opener but Reading were punished deep into extra time when ex-Royal Billy Sharp found himself unmarked inside the area.

Mark Bowen’s side had plenty of chances and came within inches of grabbing an equaliser when Pele’s last-minute strike crept past Dean Henderson’s post.

And Morrison, who celebrated his 32nd birthday on the night, insisted Reading can take plenty of confidence from their valiant display.

He told the Reading Chronicle: “We’re ultimately disappointed but we’ve played at a level that I don’t think we’ve shown before this season.

“We need to carry on playing at that level and show some consistency between now and the end of the season.

“It was a disappointing start and it took us 15 minutes to regroup but we grew into the game and then obviously got the penalty late in the first half.

“It could have easily gone the other way. We had some really good opportunities. I don’t think you could tell who the Premier League team was. They know they’ve got away with one really.

“Last week was a real low point but we’ve come through. You can see the rapport with the fans. We’re ready to put that commitment in for the badge and for the club.”

Reading return to Championship action on Saturday when they face Birmingham City away from home.

And Morrison, who spent more than five years at St Andrews, stressed he’s ready to take on his former side.

“It’s a big weekend for me. I’m looking forward to it – hopefully I’ll remember which team to score for.

“It was gut-wrenching to leave there but I’m really enjoying it here. I’m not one of those that won’t celebrate if you score. “If I score I’ll certainly be celebrating.”