Reading vs Brighton & Hove Albion preview - Problems mount for Royals

Posted Monday, March 09, 2015 by PA

Reading boss Steve Clarke will check on his walking wounded ahead of the clash with Brighton.

Midfielder Nathaniel Chalobah and defender Alex Pearce both took hefty blows to the face during Saturday's bruising FA Cup draw at Bradford, although the latter came back on to finish the game despite suffering a broken nose.

Full-back Chris Gunter and winger Garath McCleary could return to the starting line-up after dropping to the bench at Valley Parade.

Long-term absentees Jem Karacan (knee) and Anton Ferdinand (calf) are still on the sidelines.

Brighton will be without Sam Baldock, who suffered a knee injury against Derby last week which may have ended his season.

Fellow striker Craig Mackail-Smith will be assessed after he missed the 2-0 win over the Rams due to a hamstring strain.

Midfielder Rohan Ince will be hoping for a recall after missing out on a place in the squad against Derby, with manager Chris Hughton revealing he opted to rest the youngster.

Kemy Agustien (thigh), Andrew Crofts (knee) and Solly March (calf) are still out for the Seagulls, who would climb above their hosts and move 12 points clear of the relegation zone with a victory.