Royals coach Nigel Gibbs has hailed the positive influence of veteran defender Ulises De La Cruz on the Club's young players.

The Ecuador international wore the skipper's armband as our reserve team ended their season with a 2-2 draw against Spurs on Monday, producing a typically professional performance in the centre of defence.

Gibbs' coaching role is focussed on developing our emerging talent, and he said, "It's been a good season for the young players in our reserves.

"Players like James Henry, Jem Karacan, Hal Robson-Kanu, Adam Bygrave and others have really progressed.

"The application and attitude of all the players has been excellent, and that kind of environment is created by the senior players like Ulises De La Cruz.

"I can't speak highly enough of 'Dela' - he has been fantastic for us and his training and workrate is an example to everyone.

"He's extremely consistent and he captains our reserve side by example. Whatever game he's playing, he gives the same effort and preparation, and he's a great role model for our younger players to follow."

The Royals finished second in the Barclays Premier Reserve League south division, and Nigel concluded, "It's a shame we weren't quite able to retain our title but overall the performances have been good and we're very pleased with the season."