After a hugely disappointing defeat at home to Fulham, Reading travel to fellow strugglers Arsenal in search of an unlikely 3 points.
Arsenal’s season is all but over after their defeat at Old Trafford ended their title hopes, while Reading sit just three points above the drop zone.
Steve Coppell on his team selection:
‘This is a four-game season and for each one individually there is not one team that I could pick to do a job for all four matches.
‘The players have got to have an element of trust in me, knowing that my desire is the same as theirs. I have just got to pick the team that is right.
‘I always try to remove personalities from the line-up and go on what I think is effective and will advance us.’
Arsenal are without Manuel Almunia, Mathieu Flamini, Bacary Sagna and Justin Hoyte.
Abou Diaby returns from suspension.
Take your pick with Arsenal really, but in our past meetings, Fabregas has certainly stood out. His slick passing is enough to carve open any team.
Steve Coppell has said he has the right to make ten changes following the defeat at home to Fulham.
Glen Little is likely to start and Bobby Convey is also pushing for a place in the starting line up.
Alhough he’s not fully fit, the winger is capable of skinning anyone on his day. He has been sorely missed this season, and Kevin Doyle in particular will benefit from his creativity.
Arsenal have not lost successive league games in 41 outings.
Arsenal have 20 league games this season, Reading have lost 20.
Arsenal are the only team that Reading haven’t taken any points off since arriving in the Premier League.
Peter Walton (Northamptonshire)
I simply can’t see anything past an Arsenal win, and fear that there could be a backlash following their poor recent form.
My prediction: Arsenal 4-0 Reading
Wigan (a) 26/04/08
Tottenham (h) 03/05/08
Derby (a) 11/05/08