McDermott's team next face Wycombe Wanderers on Saturday

Reading manager Brian McDermott has hailed the team's pre-season tour of the Balkans as a success, despite a 1-0 defeat by NK Celje.

The Royals won their other matches 3-1 against Belgrade Red Star B team and 2-0 over Inter Zapresic.

McDermott told BBC Berkshire he has been happy with the overall trip.

He said: "The organisation, the spirit, the venues for the games themselves and the hotel, everything has been fantastic about the trip."

McDermott also added he was pleased with the attitude of his players and believes Tuesday's defeat will actually benefit the Royals for the future.

"The highlight for me was the group itself. We haven't had any problems at all and there's been a fabulous spirit.

"I was pleased that at no time did we throw in the towel. We were trying to get that goal in the end.

"The spirit was there. We don't like losing, so maybe it's a blessing for us because it's a feeling that we don't like and one we don't want too many times even in pre-season friendlies," he explained.

The Royals manager admits there are still areas for improvement but is confident his players will be ready for the coming season.

"We had chances that we didn't take. We probably weren't clinical enough but we will be come August, which is the most important thing.

"We have players that are real men and have proper characters and I'm delighted with that and I'm really looking forward to the new season."

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