Dave Jones hoping to cap 600th game as a a manager with win over Reading

Dave Jones insists he can toast his 600th game as a manager today by halting Reading's promotion charge.

Jones, who kicked-off his career in management at Stockport in 1995, claims a top-two spot is still within City's reach. The in-form Bluebirds are fifth, nine points adrift of the second automatic promotion spot, currently held by the Royals.

But the Cardiff boss aims to hunt down the sides above City.

He said: "There's 22 games left and lots of points to be fighting for. You never give up chasing while there's a chance. You'd never forgive yourself if you did that and other teams faltered.

"The gap can be easily made up. It's about picking up points when not playing well. And when you're on good form, as we've been, you've got to capitalise.

"The Christmas period is vital for everyone and we've just got to keep it going, keep believing and chasing the teams above us. Reading's a big test but we have nothing to fear."

Jones took charge at Ninian Park in May 2005. He reaches his milestone as the second-longest serving boss in the Championship behind his opposite number today, Steve Coppell.

Jones added: "This record means I'm doing something right."