Reading have received a significant fitness boost as striker Jack Marriott returns to training ahead of Wednesday's Thames Valley derby at Oxford United. The 32-year-old made his first appearance since September as a substitute in Saturday's 0-0 draw at Plymouth Argyle, a result that leaves the Royals sixth in League One on 22 points.

Manager Leam Richardson confirmed the forward's progress. "Jack's had another day on the grass as well, so it was really positive he came through the short period on Saturday," he said. Richardson added, "Fingers crossed we can get him more minutes this week as well, with both games coming up." Marriott, who has scored eight goals in eight appearances this season, missed six matches with an ankle ligament injury after a prolific start.

Key players missing

While Marriott edges closer to full fitness, Reading remain without three other key figures. Forward Paddy Lane, centre-back Ben Ward and midfielder George Earthy are all sidelined. Ward, who has one goal and three clean sheets this term, has returned to training on grass but is being managed carefully due to a pubic injury. Richardson indicated the defender could be back involved for the Stockport fixture if he suffers no reaction.

George Earthy, the former West Ham United midfielder who has two goals this season, is following a similar recovery programme. Richardson suggested the medical team is pencilling in a return for both players further down the line, potentially for the game against Stockport. The absence of Lane, who also has two goals, compounds the selection issues in attack.

Oxford United await

The immediate focus is a key away fixture at the Kassam Stadium. Oxford United currently sit fourth in the table, making this a key match in the early-season promotion picture. Reading's recent form has been mixed, with two wins, one draw and two losses in their last five outings, a sequence you can review on our standings page. The clubs last met in February 2024, playing out a 1-1 draw.

Richardson also praised the performance of Josh Knight, who made his first league start for the club in the Plymouth stalemate before being withdrawn late as a precaution. "Josh Knight was excellent on Saturday and will go from strength to strength," the manager said. Reading will travel to Oxford hoping to end a 27-year wait for a win in this fixture, with their top scorer Marriott potentially playing a more prominent role.

The report in full is at readingchronicle.co.uk