Reading vs Barnsley - Vito Mannone to play on despite family illness

Posted Monday, November 27, 2017 by PA

Reading goalkeeper Vito Mannone will be available for the visit of Barnsley.

The 29-year-old returned to Italy after his mother suffered a stroke before featuring in Saturday's goalless draw with Sheffield Wednesday and intends to play on until facing former club Sunderland, after which the team have an extended break.

Midfielder John Swift will be assessed on a hamstring injury, with Liam Kelly again ready to start.

Forward Sam Smith has been carrying a knee problem, while winger Callum Harriott (hamstring), George Evans (thigh) and Garath McCleary (groin) continue their rehabilitation along with Stephen Quinn and forward Joseph Mendes (both knee). Defender Jordan Obita, though, is out for the season after surgery on his anterior cruciate ligament.

Barnsley will be without suspended winger Adam Hammill, who sits out a one-game ban after receiving his fifth booking of the season in Saturday's home defeat to Leeds.

Ryan Hedges replaced Hammill against Leeds and could return to the starting line-up as the Reds bid to avoid a third straight league loss.

Forward Mamadou Thiam missed out at the weekend due to a back injury, but was hoping to return to training on Monday and will be assessed.

Winger Lloyd Isgrove remains sidelined due to the knee injury which has kept him out of the last three matches.