READING FC star Tom McIntyre opened up on the magical moment he stepped out for his full first-team home debut against Charlton Athletic, writes Courtney Friday.

The boyhood Royals fan, who has risen through the club’s Tier One academy system, made his first start in the disappointing 2-0 Skybet Championship defeat on Saturday.

But McIntyre insisted the result did not entirely spoil the occasion.

“It was crazy to walk out onto the pitch,” beamed McIntyre.

“I felt emotional. If I’d looked at my parents any longer I could have teared up. It’s magical.”

The 20-year-old stressed, however, that he must forget about being a fan once he crosses the white line.

He continued: “It gives me goosebumps just talking about it, but I have to keep a cool head.

“I have a job to do. When that first whistle blows I’m not a fan, I’m a player.

“I have to do my best.”

McIntyre admitted he had an inkling he would be in Jose Gomes’ first-team plans against the Addicks once he knew USA international Matt Miazga would not be fit to play.

Gomes regularly opts for a back three of Miazga, Liam Moore and Michael Morrison, meaning McIntyre’s first-team chances may be limited this season.

Fellow academy centre-back Tom Holmes went out on loan to KSV Rosalere, a Belgian club owned by Reading’s Chinese owners this week, but McIntyre ruled out departing on loan, insisting he wants to cement a first-team place in Berkshire.

He continued: “I always wanted to stay fight for my place. I believe I’m good enough to play.

“I want to be a Reading player and this is where I want to play football, so I was never worried about loans.

“I know they’re older and more experienced, but when I get my chance I want to compete.”