With both sides yet to record a Premier League victory, they now turn their attention to the Capital One Cup. The Royals made it through to the third round after a 3-2 triumph over Peterborough, while QPR beat Walsall 3-0 at Loftus Road.
Vital Quotes:
Reading manager Brian McDermott – ‘There wasn`t too much in the game on Saturday, but we didn`t do enough with the ball to win it. We have to be much more difficult to play against, much more on the front foot and more of a goal threat, just like we have been in the last two and half years or so. It`s basically about getting the identity of our team back.’
QPR assistant manager Mark Bowen – ‘The manager, wherever he`s been, has always treated cup competitions with the utmost respect by playing his strongest sides and I would imagine he will be looking to do that again, admittedly with one eye on our current injury list.’
QPR Team News:
QPR have some defensive injury problems, with Jose Bosingwa forced off early against Tottenham last week and Anton Ferdinand struggling with a hamstring problem. This means Keiran Dyer is likely to start in a defensive role. Striker Andy Johnson is a long-term absentee for Mark Hughes’ side.
Player to watch: Esteban Granero
The Spanish playmaker has made a good start at QPR and some fans have already spoken of what a superb signing he is. The ex-Real Madrid player has great vision and passing range.
Reading Team News:
Reading are likely to welcome back winger Jimmy Kebe for his first appearance of the season, following a hamstring problem suffered in pre-season. Brian McDermott is likely to make some changes to his side, but will be without Jason Roberts, who still hasn’t recovered from his calf problem.
Player to watch: Jimmy Kebe
The Malian winger is set to return for this game and many Royals fans have been awaiting his return for a while. Superb burst of pace & flair that we may have been missing in our Premier League campaign.
Expected line-up:
Reading: McCarthy, Cummings, Pearce, Mariappa, Harte, Kebe, Karacan, Leigertwood, Robson-Kanu, Pogrebnyak, Hunt
Match Prediction:
All depends on what teams both managers want to out, but it looks as if Mark Hughes is going to name a strong line-up. We also never do well at QPR, especially midweek. 2-0 loss.
Next Fixtures:
QPR – West Ham (H) – Mon 1st October – Premier League
Reading – Newcastle (H) – Sat 29th September – Premier League
