Reading travel to face Wycombe Wanderers in a League One derby this Saturday with their squad depth set for a significant test. The Royals, currently eighth in the table with 10 points from six games, will be without midfielders Charlie Savage and Jeriel Dorsett, who are away on international duty. Sean Patton remains sidelined with a foot injury, while Ashqar Ahmed is a doubt after a minor knock in training.
Team news and absences
Leam Richardson confirmed the absences and stressed the need for others to step up. "All our players are important," the Reading manager said. The situation is expected to open opportunities for the likes of Josh Stokes and Liam Fraser in midfield. Richardson acknowledged that leaving players out is a difficult part of his role but believes healthy internal competition drives standards.
Player focus
Top scorer Jack Marriott, who has netted eight times in six appearances this term, will lead the line. He scored twice in the recent 2-0 win over Notts County. Wycombe will feature former Reading striker Jayden Wareham, with Richardson noting his side's defence will need to be alert. The last meeting between the sides, an EFL Trophy tie in August, ended in a 1-1 draw.
Richardson's side have shown strong home form, including a 5-0 thrashing of Mansfield Town, but have been inconsistent on the road. Their next fixture after the Wycombe clash is at home to Bradford City, where Andy Rinomhota is anticipated to return. Fans can check the full upcoming schedule on the club's fixtures page and view the squad list list here.
