Watford vs Reading preview - Late tests for Hornets duo

Watford will hand late fitness checks to Almen Abdi and Odion Ighalo ahead of the visit of Reading.

Midfielder Abdi and striker Ighalo have been struggling with hamstring injuries but the Hornets are hopeful both will be available.

Defender Tommie Hoban misses out, however, as he serves a one-match ban following his red card at Wolves last weekend.

Midfielder Sean Murray remains on the sidelines following a recent knee operation.

Reading are awaiting international clearance for new signing Zat Knight.

The former Fulham, Aston Villa and Bolton defender joined the Royals as a free agent on Thursday on a deal until the end of the season following a stint in the MLS.

Fellow centre-half Alex Pearce will be assessed having missed the midweek win over Brighton due to a broken nose suffered against Bradford in the FA Cup.

Midfielder Jem Karacan is back in the frame after a recent knee injury but defender Anton Ferdinand is still out with calf trouble.