Reading goalkeeper Adam Federici replaced injured Alex McCarthy and duly left with the Royals' first top-flight clean sheet on their so far winless return. Picture: Paul Chesterton / Focus Images

Returning goalkeeper Adam Federici felt Reading got something to build on from their goalless draw with City – but that they also deserved all three points.

The Australian replaced injured Alex McCarthy and duly left with the Royals’ first top-flight clean sheet on their so far winless return.

“That is something to build on,” he said. “You have got to say that the defence was really solid today which is something we have been lacking in.

“We had a good go. We didn’t get that one real opportunity. We had a lot of half chances. The boys worked really hard and we deserved three points. You could have said that a few times this season.

“Everything was good – we just lacked a goal. To be fair, we haven’t really lacked for goals this season so we will take the clean sheet and build from there.

“It is just getting that one break. We haven’t had a lot of luck this season – that plays a big part in going on runs.”