Brian McDermott dismisses reports of a bust-up with Danny Guthrie after axing the midfielder

Brian McDermott: Denies rumours of a bust-up with Reading midfielder Danny Guthrie

Brian McDermott has dismissed reports of a bust-up with Danny Guthrie after axing the midfielder for Reading's 3-3 draw with Fulham on Saturday.

McDermott confirmed he had spoken with Guthrie, who joined from Newcastle this summer, about his exclusion from the squad.

But the Royals boss denied suggestions the 25-year-old had been told to stay away from the club following his reaction to being left out.

"There's no bust-up. He wasn't selected to play for the game," said McDermott.

"So I don't know where the reports are coming from. Danny was training yesterday.

"I try to have a conversation with the players that are not involved and I did have a conversation with him.

"Listen, if players are not in the side at this football club, they support the players that are in the side - that's what's got to happen.

"You get paid to play when you're selected. And when you're not selected, support the players that are.

"That's what we've had over a long period of time. That's the culture of this football club."