Reading boss Ruben Selles has spoken of his excitement for the Academy to participate in the Premier League International Cup- which includes a reunion with boyhood club, Valencia.

The Royals boss sat down with fan site The Tilehurst End for an in-depth chat during the international break, covering a range of topics throughout his 14 months in Berkshire.

Placing emphasis on youth development, his philosophy has lined up well with the club, who take immense pride in their prestigious Academy.

Club legends Michael Gilkes, Noel Hunt and Mikele Leigertwood run the youth system, with the Under-21s finishing sixth in the PL2 last year and reaching the semi final of the play-offs.

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A top six finish secures qualification for European football this season in the form of the Premier League International Cup.

For the first time in nearly a decade, elite sides from around the continent will pit their wits against Reading throughout the next six months.

Reading will play Ajax, Dinamo Zagreb, Monaco and Valencia during the group phase- an emotional tie for Spaniard Selles who learned his trade with his boyhood club.

"I have good relations with the people at Valencia and the first thing they did was text me so I will be there for sure supporting our boys," he told the Tilehurst End.

"I like to be at their matches as much as I can- the Under-18s too. If we don’t have a match, then one of the technical staff is watching the game. We are excited to have the International Cup coming and all the good opponents. It will be a difficult context for them, but it will make us better.

(Image: ©Jason Dawson)

"As much as we can, players like Andre [Garcia] and some others that have made their debuts for the first-team this season, if they’re not playing for us, will play those games to get more international experience. It is very big for the club- what they achieved last season was very impressive.

"If we want to be a club that has a young and talented Academy that brings players into the first-team, we need those games and to continue helping, pushing and supporting them."