Reading FC will look to extend their three-game unbeaten streak when they welcome Rotherham United to the Select Car Leasing Stadium on Saturday.
The Royals currently sit ninth in League One, just three points off the playoff places. Meanwhile, Rotherham have struggled for consistency and find themselves 14th, having failed to win in their last three outings.
Reading manager Noel Hunt has warned his squad to expect a difficult, physical encounter against Steve Evans’ direct-playing Millers.
“We have to be able to deal with it. They’re a good side—direct like them [Shrewsbury]—and they’re effective at what they do. We have to deal with it, embrace it, and go to compete. We have to do the basics, defending the box and the line well, and try to get the ball down and play more.”
Reading’s Recent Form Offers Encouragement
Despite a tough start to 2024, Reading have shown signs of resurgence. Their January struggles included three consecutive league defeats, but a 1-0 victory over Bolton Wanderers earlier this month helped restore confidence.
Following that win, the Royals held Huddersfield Town to a goalless draw and most recently played out a 1-1 stalemate with Shrewsbury Town. Jayden Wareham’s early goal was cancelled out in the second half, but the result kept Reading in the top half of the table.
A victory on Saturday would bring Hunt’s side back into serious playoff contention as they seek their 12th league win of the season.
Rotherham in Need of a Turnaround
Rotherham United have endured an inconsistent return to League One following their relegation from the Championship. A promising run of form in December and January briefly lifted them into the top half, but they have since suffered defeats to Birmingham and Shrewsbury before drawing with Blackpool in midweek.
Their struggles away from home have been a major concern, with just two wins on the road all season. Steve Evans’ men will need to find a way to grind out results if they are to climb back towards the top 10.
Injury Concerns for Both Teams
Reading are still missing key players in defence, with Andy Yiadom and Jeriel Dorsett unavailable. Harlee Dean is also a doubt, meaning Amadou Mbengue could continue at centre-back. The midfield trio of Lewis Wing, Charlie Savage, and Harvey Knibbs is likely to start, while the attacking lineup may include Chem Campbell, Jayden Wareham, and Kelvin Ehibhatiomhan.
Rotherham, meanwhile, are dealing with a lengthy injury list. The likes of Sean Raggett, Cohen Bramall, and Jonson Clarke-Harris could all be missing, leaving Evans with limited options in attack. Sam Nombe and Jordan Hugill are expected to lead the line, while Pelly Ruddock Mpanzu should feature in midfield.
Site Opinion
This is a crucial fixture for Reading. With the playoff race heating up, they cannot afford to drop points against a struggling Rotherham side. While the Millers will pose a physical threat, their poor away record and ongoing injury issues give Reading a great opportunity to take all three points. If Hunt’s side can handle the direct approach and maintain their recent defensive solidity, they should be well-positioned to pick up a vital win.
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