Reading boss Paul Ince insists his side can beat anybody as they make the trip to in-form Middlesbrough.

Michael Carrick's side have risen from the bottom three to the top three and looked to push Sheffield United all the way in the promotion chase.

Having won just three away matches all season, and confusion around a pending points deduction, many have written the Royals off on Teeside.

However, the former Boro midfielder insists his side can cause a shock at the Riverside.

"People will look at 23rd in the away form and Middlesbrough are flying, it should be a foregone conclusion. It doesn’t always pan out that way," the former England captain said. "The thing about the Blackpool game is there was a lot of pressure to get the three points, so why can’t we go up there and win the game? It’s not a case of seeing if we can stay in the game and nick a point. We want to stay in the game as that’s how you pick up points, but we’re not fearful of anybody. We’ve got a good side with a great spirit and togetherness. On our day we can beat anybody."

Reading face four of the top five this month, including Sheffield United and Millwall.