READING FC have secured Category 1 status for their successful Academy for the fourth year running.

It is a massive achievement by Royals' whose youth set-up is right up there with the best in the country.

The club gained Category 1 status for the first time three years ago as part of the Premier League's Elite Player Performance Plan.

The club must go through a rigorous audit process every 12 months in order to retain their status involving a thorough investigation of facilities, coaching standards, education provision, on-field achievements and future ambitions.

That process took place towards the end of last season and once again Royals came through with flying colours.

Acting Academy Manager Lee Herron, deputising for Eamonn Dolan who has health problems, said: “Retaining Category 1 status is a magnificent achievement for Reading Football Club, and it becomes an opportunity for us to continue the great work that has been done over a long period of time.

“The commitment and desire from the staff here is phenomenal, and I’m very humbled to work with them.

“This achievement is a huge credit to everyone involved, and a testament to the wonderful leadership of Eamonn Dolan over a number of years.”

Category 1 status means Reading will continue to compete against the best youngsters in the country.

Last season, Martin Kuhl's Under 21s were one of only two Championship teams playing in the top tier of the Barclays U21 Premier League along with Middlesbrough where they competed against the likes of Manchester United, Liverpool, Manchester City and Liverpool on a regular basis.

Similarly, David Dodd's Under 18s were one of three Championship teams competing in the U18 Premier League Southern Section where they faced Chelsea, Arsenal, Tottenham, Leicester City and Southampton.

Reading's top-rated Academy also means they can continue to attract the top young players in the country.

Royals have a superb track record of producing homegrown players, with Gylfi Sigurdsson, Shane Long, Hal Robson-Kanu, Michael Hector and Jem Karacan among those to have risen through the ranks.

The club's chief executive, Nigel Howe, added: “This is a magnificent achievement, both rightful reward and true recognition of the time, money and sheer hard work we invest in our Academy set up.

“Category 1 status reaffirms the fact that our youth programme has solid foundations, big ambitions and continues to be the envy of others across the country.

“Well done to all who have supported such high standards within our youth set up over a number of years and who will continue to run a Category 1 Academy programme which is held in the highest esteem.”