Reading vs Queens Park Rangers - Reading skipper Paul McShane doubtful for QPR game

Reading captain Paul McShane is a major doubt for the Sky Bet Championship clash against QPR at the Madejski Stadium on Thursday night.

Defender McShane has been unable to train this week after suffering a clash of heads during the closing stages of Saturday's 3-1 defeat at Nottingham Forest, which has left him with swelling underneath his right eye.

Anton Ferdinand or Jake Cooper could come in at the back if McShane is not given the all-clear.

Royals boss Steve Clarke is also waiting for news on midfielder Garath McCleary, who missed the trip to the City Ground because of a hamstring problem.

QPR forward Charlie Austin could return to the starting XI.

Austin, who had been struggling with a calf problem, came off the bench to net the winner against Leeds on Saturday.

Midfielder Leroy Fer is available again following a one-match suspension.

Defender Clint Hill has been troubled by a knee injury, while forward Jamie Mackie (hamstring) remains sidelined.