Last Updated: Tue, 06 Jan 2009 14:16
Reading striker Noel Hunt believes the strength in depth of the current squad will be a massive aid in the quest for promotion.
Reading made a host of changes for the FA Cup defeat last weekend and Hunt believes it is the ability to be able to rest players that will give them an edge in the months to come.
He told the Echo: "It has been a good break for some of the boys so we will all be back fresh for the Watford game.
"A few of us had niggles and everyone will be in training this week looking to impress so we will see what happens. Every place is up for grabs.
"We are all obviously disappointed that we are out of the FA Cup, but the manager made a lot of changes and the boys who came in did a good job.
"We are in a very strong position because of the strength of squad we have. If we were to buy this month then that would only be a positive thing and would increase the competition in our squad.
"You see a lot of sides that have a good first half of the season, but then suffer after January because of suspensions and injuries, so you must have people who are fit and ready to come in."