Sick Michael Morrison a doubt for Reading boss Mark Bowen’s first game in charge

Posted Friday, October 18, 2019 by PA

New Reading boss Mark Bowen hopes defender Michael Morrison overcomes a stomach bug in time for Saturday’s Sky Bet Championship clash with high-flying Preston.

Bowen, who was appointed on Monday, revealed there has been sickness in the Royals camp this week, with centre-back Morrison having to leave training early on Tuesday.

Midfielder John Swift will return to contention after sitting out the defeat at Bristol City due to a one-match ban following his red card against Fulham.

United States defender Matt Miazga and Ivory Coast striker Yakou Meite will each be assessed following lengthy trips during the international break, along with Romania forward George Puscas.

Third-placed Preston will have defender Darnell Fisher pushing for a recall at the Madejski Stadium after he completed a one-match suspension.

Right-back Fisher sat out the 5-1 thrashing of Barnsley on October 5 after collecting five yellow cards.

Fellow full-back Andrew Hughes is also available to return, having missed the last month because of hamstring and hip problems.

Lilywhites captain Tom Clarke, out since August 21, is not yet ready to return from a knee issue, while forward Louis Moult is out for the season due to an anterior cruciate ligament injury.