Steve Clarke frustrated by "lacklustre" Reading in defeat to Leeds United

Reading manager Steve Clarke has admitted that he was surprised to see his side's "lacklustre" display in the 2-0 loss to Leeds United at the Madejski Stadium.

The Royals headed into the match on the back of consecutive victories, but they struggled to test the visiting defence on a night when the home supporters were hoping to see their team climb into the top half of the Championship.

"It was a very disappointing night after having had such a good spell recently," Clarke told reporters.

"It was not our best performance by a long way. It was not a great game, it was very scrappy, and I always felt that the first goal was going to be crucial.

"I'm not sure why we were so lacklustre. It was very strange and is difficult to work out. We just didn't fire tonight, but we'll not get too down. We'll put it to bed and move on."

Reading will turn their attention to the FA Cup when they meet Derby County on Saturday.