Reading goalkeeper Adam Federici has called on referees to punish opponents who use foul play to stop him from launching attacks.

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The Australian's distribution has been targeted by opponents and Preston's Steve Elliot was fortunate not to be booked for a foul on the goalkeeper on Saturday.

And Federici is becoming increasingly incensed by the tactic.

"It's getting quite frustrating," he said. "After the first couple of games I played, teams picked up on it and I now have a lot of people standing behind me or in front.

"At the weekend I got a kick in the ankle when my leg was in the air and that is quite dangerous because it's not protected. Injuries could really happen so I just hope referees will go and put a stop to it.

"On Saturday I was looking to put Leroy in one-on-one with a defender so it would have been a good opportunity for us."