Reading FC 0-0 Birmingham City: Player Ratings

Ali Al-Habsi: 5

Had little to do apart from dealing with back passes. But still nearly gave the game away with two fumbles which could have led to a goal.

Chris Gunter: 6

Played as a wingback as he does for Wales but needed Gareth Bale to help out his solid but unproductive display.

Paul McShane: 6

Mostly competent but a first half defensive shank and a second half headed chance could have been better.

Liam Moore: 6

Steady if unspectacular performance but brings the ball forward well and seems to have slotted into the system with ease.

Jordan Obita: 7

Fully justified his recall to the team in a near faultless performance, which also included the best cross of the night, forcing the Birmingham keeper into a crucial smothering save.

George Evans: 6

Dropped into the centre of the back three and did nothing wrong.

Danny Williams: 5

Too often caught in possession in ponderous display. Struggles with the style of play.

Stephen Quinn: 6

Hardworking and willing but lacks the quality to make things happen. Had a difficult first-half volleying chance and barely made contact with the ball.

Garath McCleary: 6

Frustrating evening for the  Jamaican, who promised plenty but achieved little due to poor crosses and unimpressive dead ball kicks. No better than Norwood in this respect.

Yann Kermorgant: 6

Showed a few neat  touches in the build-up play and was a valuable asset in defending set-pieces. But could not shake off his markers where it mattered in the opposition box.

Roy Beerens: 5

After impressing against Ipswich the Dutchman regressed. Rarely beat his man and his crossing was consistently poor.

Substitutes

John Swift: 6

Improved the midfield when he arrived but was facing a massed defence and lacked the time to make a real impact.

Callum Harriott: 6

The only Reading player to score two goals in a game this season looked lively but wasn't given enough of a chance.

Joseph Mendes: N/A

Ran offside once and may not have touched the ball (at all).

Who was YOUR man of the match? Vote in our poll at the bottom of the page, and leave your thoughts in the comments section.

Average Rating: 5.8

Best and worst performances from 2016/2017:

6.7 - Preston North End H (W 1-0)

6.4 - Plymouth Argyle H (W 2-0)

6.2 - Cardiff City A (W 1-0)

5.8 - AVERAGE

5.6 - Newcastle United A (L 1-4)

5.5 - MK Dons H (W 2-2)

5.2 - Wolverhampton Wanderers A (L 0-2)

Season's Ratings: