Manager Brian McDermott said he hoped Reading fans would quickly forgive Mills

Reading's Matt Mills has thanked fans for the support they showed him during the Royals' draw at Middlesbrough.

Mills, 23, apologised last week after making an offensive gesture at Reading fans during the 1-0 win against QPR.

"Stepping off the bus I had those nerves again about what the reaction would be," Mills told BBC Berkshire.

"I'd just like to say a massive 'thank you' to everybody. It's a long way to come to support the lads and to get behind me, which I much appreciate."

He added: "What happened during the week was obviously disappointing for me and I made my views public after the event. As I said, it was through passion at the time and that's how I play."

Reading extended their unbeaten run to six games with the 1-1 draw at the Riverside and Mills said the confidence flowing through the team is evident.

"When you go behind in a game, to come back - especially at a place like this - shows great character from the boys.

It's been relentless for the past few weeks, but as players we love that Matt Mills

"When Brian took over, the first thing he wanted to instil in us was to keep clean sheets and play with a good shape, which we've been doing.

"That breeds confidence. When you feel like you're not going to concede, it gives the strikers the freedom to do what they do best."

Reading next travel to Leicester City on Wednesday 24 March and Mills said it was good to have so many big games in a short space of time.

"It's been relentless for the past few weeks, but as players we love that. It keeps the confidence going."

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version