Brian McDermott wants to repay Reading fans in tonight's Capital One Cup tie against Peterborough

Brian McDermott backed the decision to postpone the match (Getty Images)

Reading boss Brian McDermott wants to repay fans in tonight's Capital One Cup tie against Peterborough after Saturday's trip to Sunderland was rained off.

The Royal's Barclays Premier League clash at the Stadium of Light was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch just before kick-off, with fans already having made their way up to Wearside.

"When you prepare for a game, you're ready to play and you come to a Premier League ground in August and don't get to play, it is a bit bizarre," McDermott said.

"I've never seen anything like it - it was unplayable.

"We have to deal with that and now prepare for our game against Peterborough.

"It's disappointing for all our fans who have travelled and it's cost them a lot of money.

"It's hard for them [the fans] because financially that's a expensive trip and that's what I'm more sorry about.

"We were ready to play and we were looking forward to playing but now we move on to our next game."

With Reading not playing at the weekend, McDermott has no fresh injury doubts, and with no match this weekend, the Reading boss could be set to field a strong side against Posh.

Jem Karacan is still working his way back from a broken ankle while Jimmy Kebe (hamstring) will not be available until after the international break.

However, striker Jason Roberts will provide a boost as he is back in contention after returning from suspension.

McDermott is also looking to display an attacking style of football.

He said: "What is settling for a draw? Does that mean you get as many people as you can behind the ball? I don't think that necessarily works, you can get a draw by putting another striker on and putting more pressure on the ball.

"I don't know any other way and I think that is the best way for us. It has proved to be successful for me and the team in the last nearly three years I've been in the job."

PA