Reading vs Derby preview - No Royal revolution expected before date with Derby

Posted Monday, September 14, 2015 by PA

There is a good chance Reading could be unchanged against Derby.

Royals boss Steve Clarke saw his side win at the Madejski Stadium for the first time this season on Friday night as they thrashed Ipswich 5-1.

Clarke will have defender Michael Hector, midfielder Danny Williams and winger Paolo Hurtado back in contention.

The trio could not be considered for the visit of the Tractor Boys due to their late return from international duty.

Young striker Dominic Samuel remains sidelined by a knee problem.

Derby, who got their first win of the season against Preston on Saturday, will be without skipper Chris Baird.

He suffered a head injury at Deepdale and was briefly knocked unconscious. The versatile 33-year-old is being monitored on a day-to-day basis but will not be involved in Berkshire.

Lee Grant replaced Scott Carson in goal at the weekend, making his first start in the Sky Bet Championship this season, and he could keep the jersey.

Craig Bryson is not yet ready to return from the knee injury he suffered at Bolton on the opening day of the season while fellow midfielder George Thorne will also remain out with his calf complaint.