Wolverhampton Wanderers v Reading FC: Match Preview

Wolves

Form (all comps): LLDWD

Kenny Jackett has no new injury concerns ahead of the game on Boxing Day. However, Wanderers boss Kenny Jackett could make changes to his struggling side with striker Grant Holt, midfielder Dave Edwards and defender Scott Golbourne pushing for a recall.

Wolves come into this one sitting in 17th place and five points behind visitors Reading. It has been a stuttering first half of the season for Jackett’s side who have managed just six wins so far and only two of those have come at Molineux. Kenny Jackett has spoken openly about his side's form and admits he is in the firing line but knows where the problems are and feels he can turn it around.

Jackett rejuvenated the club by winning the League One title two seasons ago with a record points haul. Wolves then carried that momentum on last season accruing 78 points but missed out on the play-offs on goal difference. Promotion has been a clear aim for Wolves this season and they are now closer to the relegation zone than the play-off spots and one would think an upturn in form is needed if Kenny Jacket is to see this season through.

Reading

Form (all comps): WLLLL

Defender Andrew Taylor could return for Reading after missing the 1-0 win over Blackburn through injury. Defender Michael Hector is a doubt after sustaining a knock and Anton Ferdinand is unavailable.

Reading began life back under the tutelage of Brian McDermott with a win thanks to a quite spectacular Danny Williams strike which saw off Blackburn. McDermott had to contend with a defensive injury crisis which saw Stephen Quinn on his full return from injury play 90 minutes at left-back and McDermott commended Quinn’s willingness to make a sacrifice for the team.

In McDermott’s post match comments he emphasised the importance of the team, a mentality he enforced in his previous spell in charge and once senses it will be an important part of turning Readings faltering season around. Reading have a decent record at Molineux, winning on their last two visits and McDermott’s men will be hoping they can make it a third on Saturday.

Lineups From Last Game

Wolves: Ikeme, Iorfa, Batth, Ebanks-Landell, Doherty, McDonald, Price, Byrne (Holt), Henry, Graham, Afobe

Reading: Bond, Gunter, McShane, Hector, Quinn, Blackman, Norwood, Williams, McCleary (John), Vydra (Piazon), Robson-Kanu

Last Five Meetings

07 Feb 2015: Wolves 1-2 Reading (Championship)

28 Sep 2014: Reading 3-3 Wolves (Championship)

27 Jan 2009: Reading 1-0 Wolves (Championship)

30 Sep 2008: Wolves 0-3 Reading (Championship)

18 Mar 2006: Reading 1-1 Wolves (Championship)

Head To Head

Reading v Wolves: W:16 D:6 L:16

YouTube History

Prediction

Wolves 1-2 Reading