Bolton Wanderers vs Reading FC: Match Preview

The mini-Royals renaissance that appeared to be in full swing following back-to-back victories against Forest and Derby came to a shuddering halt with defeat to high-flying Wolves this Saturday. Now, Jaap Stam’s men face a tricky trip up to the Macron, where a rejuvenated Bolton Wanderers await them.

Reading

Form (all comps): WLLWWL

With the changes that he made to the starting eleven on Saturday, Jaap Stam named an altered line-up for the twentieth time in as many games this season. Admittedly, the Dutchman has had his hand forced on many of those occasions, which will also be the case on Tuesday, with Joey van den Berg suspended following his booking at the weekend.

Liam Kelly will be looking to make his return from injury in place of the Dutch midfielder, whilst Sone Aluko and Jon Dadi Bodvarsson may also press for starts after being on the bench at the weekend.

Bolton Wanderers

Form (all comps): WDDDWD

Following a torrid start to the season, former Royals legend Phil Parkinson has overseen a turnaround in fortunes for the Lilywhites. Winless after their first eleven league games, Wanderers have now not lost in their last six, climbing off the bottom of the table and moving to just three points off safety.

There could be some familiar faces in the Wanderers line-up for the visit of the Royals, with Adam Le Fondre looking to make his return to the team following an injury. However, former academy product Jem Karacan is less likely to appear, after having somewhat fallen out of favour at the Macron.

Prediction

Despite defeat at the weekend, the Royals gave an impressive account of themselves in a frantic encounter against Wolves. Whilst Parky has got Bolton on the up in recent weeks, I think Reading will have enough to get back to winning ways at the Macron.

Trotters 1-3 Royals