'Pool vs Reading: Preview

The Seasiders welcome relegation threatened Reading to Bloomfield Road tomorrow, looking to build on two positive results in the week.

A draw at rivals Preston and a win at home to playoff contenders Middlesbrough has lifted the slight gloom hanging over the club following a string of bad results.

Now, just three points behind the top six, Ian Holloway's team will be looking for revenge over the Royals after losing in November - Reading's first home win since last season.

Despite being close to the bottom three, the visitors definitely have quality in their ranks. Jimmy Kebe is an excellent player in midfield, as are the likes of Brian Howard and Rasiak up front.

Reading have flown up to Blackpool, says boss Brian McDermott: 'We have a tough run of three away games so we're going to fly up to Blackpool.

'It only takes an hour compared to six hours in a bus, and that's before you come back.

'Spending that much time on a bus isn't good for the players so I thought the plane was easily the best thing to do.

'We've done it in the past and the players should definitely feel the benefit because they will have much more time to rest.'

Ian Holloway on a possible new face: 'I have some plans as regards dipping into the loan market - but whether I can do it or not.

'I have to think about the run-in, injuries and possible suspensions. I'm all right in certain areas but I don't think I'm OK in others. The chairman is back from holiday and I will talk to him

It's unlikely many changes will be made for the game. The most likely is the introduction of Hameur Bouazza or Stephen Dobbie on the wing. Brett Ormerod doesn't seem droppable at the minute so Gary Taylor-Fletcher could make way.

Rob Edwards is out through suspension after his red card on Tuesday, with Andy Butler likeely to fill in.

After notching his first goal of his second loan spell at 'Pool, DJ will be looking to add more to that tally.

A relatively slow Reading backline which includes Matthew Mills and Ivar Ingimarsson could struggle against his pace.

It's unknown whether Ivar Ingimarsson will be reinstated after being rested on Wednesday night. Zurab Khizanishvili took his place.

Shane Long is serving a four-match suspension with Rasiak and Church looking set to start.

The goalkeeper is highly thought of in the Championship and made a string of fine saves against Crystal Palace on Wednesday.

With the attacking prowess of the Seasiders, he'll once again have to be on his toes.

Guess the score of the game by clicking here >>>

Saturday 27th February
Barnsley (A)
15:00

Vital F1 Prediction League - Join now for Monaco