Reading manager Brian McDermott has refused to embark on a spending spree in an attempt to avoid relegation.

The Royals currently sit bottom of the Premier League table, six points from safety following Queens Park Rangers' first win of the season earlier today.

However, McDermott believes that his side are already overachieving, and cited Leeds United's and Portsmouth's falls from grace as examples of what can happen without strict financial rules.

"We have been a sensible club punching above our weight for a long time and there is a lot to be said for that. We are trying to be as sensible as we can to make sure this club is still here in the future," said McDermott.

"Look at what happened at Portsmouth and Leeds, clubs nearly going out of business. Portsmouth won the FA Cup after spending a load of money, but are in real trouble now. I have absolutely no doubt other clubs will go the same way as Portsmouth and I won't let it happen here because the club's too important.

"This club has been here since 1871. Our fans are seeing Premier League football and they wouldn't have thought that was possible three years ago."

Reading's next match comes against Arsenal on Monday night.