Shaun Cummings looking to prove his worth at Reading

Cummings was a product of the Chelsea Youth academy

Reading defender Shaun Cummings says he will have to prove himself to boss Brian McDermott if he is to gain a contract extension.

The 22-year-old's current deal runs until 2012.

Cummings joined the Royals from Chelsea in 2009 and was signed by former Royals boss Brendan Rodgers.

"I want a new deal. Brendan signed me, not Brian, so I've got to prove to him that I can play at this level," he told BBC Berkshire.

Cummings, who worked with Rodgers in his time with the Chelsea youth academy, made only his eighth league appearance for Reading this season in their 2-1 win over Millwall on Tuesday.

"It was good to play and good to be playing right-back which I'm quite used to so I just performed like I knew I could and we got the win," he said.

"Right-back is my position but I don't really care where I play as long as I'm out on the pitch. I'll play upfront, centre midfield, just put me anywhere as long as I'm out on that pitch.

"Obviously I play to best of my ability and the team did well because we climbed above Millwall in the table so it's always good to play in those types of games.

"It has been an up and down season but I like to think I'd take my opportunity when given it, which I think I have done."

Reading are now seven points adrift of the play-off places in seventh position, and face Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Saturday.