The Royals head into the game at Ashton Gate on the back of a turbulant few days, and Brian McDermott will take charge of his first game as caretaker (or whatever he is) manager. He will be boosted by the return of a couple of attacking options and may look to make changes to the side that drew with Scunthopre last weekend, Brendan Rodgers last game in charge.
Vital Quotes:
First up this week, the man who axed Rodgers on Wednesday, Sir John Madejski on the managerial situation – ‘We’ve got Brian McDermott in the role, he has been with the club 10 years, he’s succesfully managed the reserves in the Premier League and won trophies.’
Then Brian McDermott himself, ‘For now I`m just getting on with what I`ve been asked to do and that is to get the team prepared and ready for Bristol City on Saturday with the help of Nigel Gibbs. It`s important to try and take the emotion away from what has happened in the last few days, I`ve done pretty much every job at the club and I`ll just be getting on with this one as I have before.’
And finally, injured striker Noel Hunt on his Twitter page after Rodgers was sacked on Wednesday, ‘Wow really didn`t c the events of 2day coming I wish the old Gaffer all the best in what ever he goes into and the new man coming in my best!!’
Bristol City Team News:
The home side will have to do without winger Ivan Sproule who injured his hamstring in the 1-0 defeat to Doncaster last weekend, but they will be boosted by the return ov Evander Sno from suspension. Louis Carey is hoping to be fit after a groin injury and could take his place in the defence.
Player to watch: Nicky Maynard
Striker who came through the youth system at Crewe has really found his feet at Ashton Gate this season, after struggling last year. He has a habit of scoring winning goals this campaign!
Reading Team News:
Shane Long and Simon Church are both set to return to the squad to boost the striking options available to Brian McDermott. Long has now served his three game ban for his red card at Derby, whilst Church is over a back injury.
Ryan Bertrand will also be back after missing the last game with flu, and McDermott could ring the changes in his first game in charge.
Player to watch: Jay Tabb
The clubs utility man stepped in a left back last week after Ryan Bertrand’s withdrew late and could return to the right on Saturday now the on loan Chelsea man is back. Consistant whenever, and where ever, called upon.
Last Meeting
21st February 2009 Reading 0-2 Bristol City. Madejski Stadium
Match Prediction:
The Royals will win this, I’m sure of it! 2-0
Next Fixture:
Saturday December 26th, Swansea (H)
