Cautious Coppell insists Royals are still learning the ropes

STEVE COPPELL continues to insist Reading are the L-plate brigade. Much more of this and the only instructor his players require will be the one who ushers them into Europe for the first time.

In registering their fourth straight win in all competitions, the Royals not only reached the widely accepted 40-point safety mark but, more importantly, jumped above Portsmouth into sixth spot.

Indeed, few would bet against Coppell’s men still being in the top half dozen when the season reaches its climax in May and thereby booking a spot in next season’s UEFA Cup.