The Royals host Watford in the Championship tomorrow afternoon.

Here is everything you need to know.

Form

There would be no cup upset at Old Trafford for Paul Ince’s side, as the Royals fell to a 3-1 defeat against Manchester United in the FA Cup.

A consolation goal for Amadou Mbengue was the only real positive for Reading, who had Andy Carroll sent off mid-way through the second half.

It summed up a poor run of results in January. Reading’s only win last month was against todays opponents Watford, after the Royals won 2-0 in the third round of the FA Cup.

The United loss followed a heavy 4-0 loss to Stoke City in the Championship, which contributed to Reading conceding nine goals in their last three games in all competitions.

Two of those came in their last game at the Select Car Leasing Stadium, after the Royals could not hold on to a two-goal advantage against QPR.

Despite their last couple of results, Reading have found their best results at home this season. Ince’s side have won eight of their twelve games at home this season and will hope to add to that tomorrow afternoon.

Watford have also struggled of late. A 2-0 loss to Middlesbrough last time out came after a 1-1 draw at home to Rotherham United. Slaven Bilic will be looking for a response from his against the Royals tomorrow.

 

Team News

Ince has revealed that Shane Long is available for Reading ahead of tomorrow’s game against Watford.

However, Naby Sarr, Ovie Ojaria and Liam Moore are still out for the Royals. Although, Ince confirmed that Ojaria is back in training.

Sam Hutchinson also remains out for Reading and will be out for a couple of weeks yet, whilst Carroll is suspended after his dismissal at Old Trafford.

Watford have several injury problems in their camp. A significant one is Joao Pedro who is likely to still be on the side-lines.

 

Last Time Out: Reading 2-0 Watford; Saturday, February 4, 2023

Reading scored two goals at the end of both halves to progress into Round Four of the FA Cup last month.

Kelvin Abrefa and Long were the goal scorers on the day, whilst Paul Ince’s side also kept a clean sheet against the Hornets.

The win setup Reading’s trip to Old Trafford last time out.