Reading could bring Sone Aluko in from the cold for Blackpool battle

Posted Friday, January 03, 2020 by PA

Sone Aluko could be a surprise inclusion in Reading’s squad for the FA Cup third-round clash with Blackpool.

The 30-year-old forward has returned to training with the Royals after a year-long loan spell with Chinese club Beijing Renhe.

Striker Lucas Joao will be assessed after suffering cramp in the New Year’s Day win at Fulham, along with captain Liam Moore, who managed to finish that match despite a shoulder injury.

Defender Andy Yiadom (knee) remains out but forward George Pușcaș (shoulder) is close to returning.

Blackpool could hand debuts to Jordan Thorniley and Grant Ward at the Madejski Stadium.

Defender Thorniley joined Simon Grayson’s Sky Bet League One side on New Year’s Day from Sheffield Wednesday.

Former Ipswich midfielder Ward arrived on the same day as a free agent but is short of match fitness having not made a first-team appearance since suffering serious knee ligament damage more than a year ago.

Seasiders goalkeeper Jak Alnwick is out for around 12 weeks with an arm injury sustained on Boxing Day, with Mark Howard likely to continue deputising.