#reading-fc

#reading-fc

Opening Tuesday's showdown sat just three points adrift of skyrocketing into the play-off places, Reading should also be excited by their extended success on home soil. Unbeaten in front of their own supporters since the start of December, Richardson's side have also gained a reputation for their lively outcomes at the Select Car Leasing Stadium. Including consecutive 2-2 stalemates against Exeter and Barnsley last month, the Royals have seen their last three home fixtures produce 13 goals at both ends of the pitch.

Kelvin Ehibhatiomhan gathered the ball just inside the area minutes later and beat his marker before drilling a low, hard shot across goal, but Callum Burton dealt with it. Sam Smith did brilliantly to bring down a lobbed pass inside the box in the 25th minute and hold off his defender before releasing a powerful shot, but Jack Stevens kept it out.

Manchester United could be buoyed by their win over Burnley before the international break, but I actually have bigger doubts about what we will see from Manchester City after seeing them capitulate the way they did against Brighton.

Negotiations between the parties are proceeding in a professional and positive manner, with full recognition from all concerned of the need to bring a sale of the club to a conclusion for all stakeholders, including players, staff and supporters.