On Sky
Brian McDermott takes charge of his 100th game as Reading manager as league leaders visit the Madejski Stadium with both teams unbeaten in the past three games
Vital Quotes:
Reading manager Brian McDermott – ‘The most important thing is to go into this game in the right frame of mind, which we will, it’s a game we’re really looking forward to, League leaders coming to town, a big crowd, it’s one we will relish.’
Saints boss Nigel Adkins – ‘Now we are in the Championship there are a lot of other big teams with aspirations of getting promoted, so we are not alone. There is a long way to go and we are well aware of that, we have our noses in front at this moment in time and we have to endeavour to stay there for as long as possible.’
Reading Team News:
Reading captain Jobi McAnuff should be fit after recovering from an ankle knock which kept him out of Tuesday nights Derby game. Jay Tabb has recovered from his concussion but is unlikely to be risked.
Player to watch: Adam Le Fondre
The striker is starting to show his prolific goalscoring-self in the Championship. Scored two good goals against Derby on Tuesday.
Southampton Team News:
Saints midfielder Adam Lalana will be available for Nigel Adkins, as he has recovered from a foot problem. Defender Radhi Jaidi is a long-term absentee, while Lee Barnard has only come back into training.
Player to watch: Rickie Lambert
The flair-ridden striker has been in hot form this season, being the Championship’s joint top goalscorer with nine goals.
Match Prediction:
Despite Southampton being a top outfit, I reckon we could sneak a 2-1 win.
Next Fixtures:
Reading – Crystal Palace (A) – 29th October – Championship
Southampton – Crystal Palace (A) – 25th October – Carling Cup Round 4
