Reading goalkeeper Alex McCarthy says they're up for their clash with manager Nigel Adkins' former club Southampton.

McCarthy could take over from Stuart Taylor when Reading face Southampton, new manager Nigel Adkins' old club, on Saturday.

He told the Reading Post: "It's the manager's previous club and I'm sure he will be looking to get one over them.

"All the boys have grown to like him and he has a great track record. Hopefully he can get us picking up points and keep us in the Premier League. We know we have a hard task."