Adam Federici: Reading keeper 'sorry' for Wembley howler

Reading goalkeeper Adam Federici has apologised for his costly mistake in the FA Cup semi-final at Wembley.

The keeper fumbled Alexis Sanchez's tame shot in extra time, as Arsenal made the FA Cup final with a 2-1 win.

He cried at full-time and staff of the Championship club consoled him.

"Just like to say thank you for all your messages and how sorry I am for my mistake. We gave our all and deserved to at least take it to pens," the 30-year-old Australian said on Twitter.

"It's part of being a goalkeeper and I'm sure it will make me stronger! Thank you again for your amazing support."

Reading fans are planning a #flagsforfeds tribute at Wednesday's game against Birmingham at Madejski Stadium where they intend to bring Australian flags in support of their keeper.

His manager Steve Clarke also came out in support of him after Saturday's match, saying the mistake contrasted his brilliant league season.

"His performances in the Championship have been crucial to this club. We stick by him. We don't lose because of him. We lose as a team and we win as a team," Clarke told BBC Sport.

"This is the life of a keeper and Adam Federici is a top goalkeeper. We will support him. We all understand his worth to the club, no worries on that."

Forward Jamie Mackie added: "He's been our best player this season. If it wasn't for him we'd be in the bottom three."

The Royals are seven points above 22nd-placed Millwall, who have three games left.

Federici tried to recover his mistake but it proved decisive in a fantastic FA Cup semi-final

Federici was distraught after letting the ball slip through

Steve Clarke and his staff consoled a distraught Federici before he quickly rushed down the tunnel