Reading boss Ruben Selles has made five changes from New Year’s Day’s 3-2 win over Exeter City for tonight’s EFL Trophy knockout tie with Brighton and Hove Albion.

The Spaniard will not be in the dugout tonight, serving his suspension for accumulating three yellow cards, with coach James Oliver-Pearce stepping into his shoes.

Having not had a game for eight days, the side should be fully rested ahead of the second half of the season in which the club look to retain League One status.

Sam Smith and Harvey Knibbs both miss out on the trip to the Amex Stadium, while Charlie Savage and Kelvin Ehibhatiomhan come in from the start.

Nine remain the same from the positive recent run of form, with the Royals losing just one of their last eight matches.

Joel Pereira comes in between the sticks, with Amadoue Mbengue; Nelson Abbey; Tyler Bindon and Jeriel Dorsett making the back four.

Lewis Wing and Michael Craig are joined by Savage in the midfield, with the former Manchester United youngster scoring a late equaliser in the last round against Charlton Athletic.

Paul Mukiaru, voted the best player in the group phase of the Bristol Street Motors Trophy, is on one wing, with in-form Femi Azeez on the other and young Ehibhatiomhan hoping to continue his fine run in cup competitions.