The English Football League have confirmed officials for this weekend's round of fixtures, with experienced referee Craig Hicks the man in the middle for Reading's relegation six-pointer against Charlton Athletic.

An EFL official for a decade, Hicks' name was in the headlines a fortnight ago when a Port Vale supporter allegedly ran onto the pitch and chased the referee after awarding Portsmouth a late penalty at Vale Park.

A 62-year-old from Stoke-on-Trent has been charged with going onto the playing area at a football match and using threatening behaviour with intent to cause fear/violence.

A joint statement from PGMOL and EFL read: "We are appalled by the incident in today's League One fixture between Port Vale and Portsmouth which saw referee Craig Hicks chased off the field of play and condemn the mindless actions of the individual involved.

"Match officials should never feel threatened for their safety when playing a pivotal role in the staging of games in our competitions.

"We will provide our full support to Craig and his team alongside Port Vale and the relevant authorities as they seek to bring this individual to justice."

Hicks has taken charge of one Reading match so far this season, with the Royals' first away win for over a calendar year coming at Adams Park against Wycombe Wanderers in December.

He returned to the pitch just a week later, taking charge of Shrewsbury Town's defeat to Cambridge United.