Reading manager Steve Coppell sees Wednesday's Barclays Premiership trip to Newcastle simply as the latest in a long line of stern tests for his players.

So far, the Royals have surpassed all expectations in their first season in the top flight, and will go up to third place if they pick up a point or more at St James' Park.

But Coppell is wary of the fact Reading still have some way to go to truly consolidate their Premiership place. "We have proven nothing yet, and this is a brand new occasion for us," he said.