Reading manager Veljko Paunovic praised his side's 'important' win as they picked up all three points against Luton Town on Boxing Day.

First-half goals from Tom McIntyre and Alfa Semedo gave Reading a two-goal advantage at the break.

Luton pressed in the second half but a late goal from Luton's LuaLua wasn't enough to deny Reading all three points.

Speaking on the win, Paunovic said: "It was a very important win. Not in the nicest way, but it was a needed one.

"Today's performance, in the first half, was very dynamic and clinical in our execution.

"That was the performance we had at the beginning of the season.

"In the second half we weren’t consistent with possession, but we defended well until we conceded the late goal.

"We had some positive turnovers but sometimes missed the final pass when we needed a bit more focus."

Boyhood Royals fan Tom McIntyre got his first goal for the club with a superb volley from a well-worked set-piece routine, which the Serbian boss praised after the game.

“It was a beautiful goal and a very well prepared set piece. I know how long he has been at the club, he’s practically the club’s child!

"He has waited a long time for his opportunity. He was very solid, he had a great defensive performance."

Paunovic gave an update on the fitness of Liam Moore, Omar Richards and Lucas Joao after the game.

"Liam [Moore] has a stress fracture of his metatarsal so he's going to be [out] for quite some time.

"But; he is a very strong guy, very positive and he is recovering well.

"We are looking to beat the predictions of the weeks he is expected to be out.

"[Joao and Richards] are in the final stages of their recovery and our medical staff are doing an amazing job with them.

"They are coming back sooner which is something we'll have to consider.

"We hope to have them back in the next few games."

The Reading boss also addressed speculation regarding two of the club's most coveted youngsters Omar Richards and Michael Olise.

"When I spoke with our senior board, I definitely encouraged for both to be part of our long-term project.

"I expect the club is working towards putting together the proper offer so we can keep them for the long-term.

"We are all aware we want them to be with us for a long time. We're working towards that."

Paunovic also refuted speculation that Olise has an £8m release clause in his contract.

"No, I'm not aware of it.

"The most important thing for Michael is that he has found a place where he is being protected, supported, playing games more than ever and is being given opportunities.

"I am confident [the pair will stay past the January window].

"But, I'm also confident to tell you that you never know.

"Every single player is exposed to the market and to the teams that have needs so somebody may pull the trigger.

"Are we going to be affected by that? It is possible, but I am confident and I am working with him on a long-term [basis].

"Everyone has to live his moment of glory, but I think his glory is still to come."