READING FC manager Paul Ince has urged the whole club to unite ahead of a crucial final seven Championship fixtures to try and keep the team in the Championship.
After being dealt a six point deduction by the EFL, the Royals are one point above the relegation zone with seven games left.
“Everyone’s against us, siege mentality, that’s what we’ve got to have at the whole club,” said Ince.
“The staff, the management, the fans, we’ve got to have that siege mentality that everyone is against us and that we’re all going to pull together and unite and show what we can achieve.
“I’ll be telling my players ‘don’t be nervous’. We have to enjoy this challenge.
“Just go and express yourself. At home we’re pretty strong. Don’t be fearful, don’t be scared because we can’t have that. Go and play with freedom.
“Sometimes we’re slow starters. It sometimes takes for them (the opposition) to have a chance for us to click into gear.
“Don’t be scared of losing and try and win the game.”
The Royals begin their mission to try and preserve their Championship status when they host Birmingham City on Friday.
Ince continued: “Friday is really important. We just hope we get through with no knocks, three points and then move onto the next one.
“There will be a time I’m sure in the next seven games where as a manager I have to take a risk. And say right ‘he could break down, but he has to play’.
“It’s not a nice thing to do, but if it means we’re in that situation, that’s where we are. It’s all hands to the pump.
“All warm ups and stretching have to be on point because we can’t afford anymore injuries.”
