SIR John Madejski believes Reading FC are in a better position to become a stable Premier League club than they were five years ago.

Royals face Fulham tonight (7.45pm ko) in the play-off semi-finals with a golden opportunity the seal a place at Wembley for the final.

It means Reading are just two wins away from a place in the Premier League next season.

Royals have achieved top flight status twice in the club's history, most recently in 2012.

However, they have failed to last more than two seasons among England's elite clubs.

But co-chairman Madejski says Reading now have the potential for stability in the premiership.

He said: "I think we are on a journey. We have great owners and we are building something now.

"Jaap Stam has been outstanding. Nobody took him seriously as doing terribly well and there we are sat in third place of the Championship table which is so good.

"He's a charming guy and he is a winner. He has a global persona.

"When he was at Manchester United for three seasons they won the Premier League title three times.

"We have a great manager and great team and great backroom staff."

Madejski, 76, said he will pop his head into the dressing room before kick-off tonight to give the players an extra boost.

But he insists the Royals know what is at stake.

He also told BBC Radio 4: "We have been here before and we will probably be there again.

"If we get promoted this time so be it but if not we will try again next season.

"We didn't expect to finish third in the league.

"I think this time around we are more of a solid team.

"Everybody is planning long term rather than in the short term."