Reading Boss Backs Federici

as seen on euroos.blogspot.com

Reading manager Steve Coppell has labelled Socceroos shot-stopper Adam Federici a 'terrific' goalkeeper and explained he has full confidence in the Australian international.

Coppell's comments come in the wake of a calf injury to Royals number one Marcus Hahnemann which has resulted in the 23-year-old Australian earning an opportunity in between the sticks in the American's absence.

Reading will host Norwich City at Madejski Stadium this weekend and Federici will make his first Championship start for the Royals in the fixture.

And Coppell declared, “We have an able deputy. Adam has been very patient. We all feel he’s ready for this challenge. It is a great opportunity for him."

The Royals boss went onto say, "Fedders is ready. He's been looking forward to it and this is a great opportunity. I've got no qualms about him, none. He's been out on loan and played well.

"Everybody has confidence in him, not just me. The players and staff do too and I'm sure in time the fans will see that."

Federici's has had to wait for an opportunity at Reading, with the consistent Hahnemann having played 100 consecutive league games for the Royals. Indeed, the Australian shot-stopper has a hard act to follow considering the 36-year-old American's performances over the last four years at Reading.

Coppell added, "Is he the same as Marcus? No, but what we might lose from Marcus we gain with Fedders. He's a different type of goalkeeper. He might not have the experience or may not possibly have the presence - as yet.

"Once he starts playing he'll quickly gain respect from everyone. In football it's easy to say 'have patience' but he's done that and bided his time because of Marcus' form.

"Now it's the chance for him to do that. We feel he's a terrific goalkeeper and I'm sure he will show that to everyone.

"He works tremendously hard, he's been supportive of Marcus, always backing him up in their banter and I'm sure he will return the favour now."

And when Coppell was pressed on whether Federici had a chance of retaining his spot in goals when Hahnemann eventually returned from injury, the Royals boss commented, “Everyone is judged on performance. If he does his stuff then possession is nine tenths of the law. It’s Marcus’ job to move him out of there, but let’s see how he does before we make decisions."

Third-placed Reading host 20th Norwich City in the English Championship on Saturday.