Stam Gives Injury Update On Moore, McShane And Midfield Trio

As it did last week, Jaap Stam's press conference revealed some mixed news on the injury front for Reading.

First the good news, as the boss suggested that defensive duo Liam Moore and Paul McShane could both be in the squad to face Sheffield Wednesday on Friday, with the latter undergoing a scan today. The Irishman was forced off in the second half against Preston after his centre-back partner suffered the same fate against Newcastle just a few days earlier.

However there's bad news for Liam Kelly, named in the Ireland squad for the first time yesterday, who is in the treatment room with a hamstring problem and therefore a doubt for the trip to Hillsborough. Fellow midfielder Jordon Mutch is also unlikely to feature, having missed training today before going for a scan.

It was pleasing to see Stephen Quinn make his long-awaited return from injury by starting for the Under-23s against Tottenham last night, but worryingly limped off less than half an hour into the game. However, Stam claimed that this was nothing to be concerned about.

Unlike in recent weeks, Deniss Rakels was not present for the U23s, suggesting that he has returned to full fitness and could appear on Friday. His inclusion in Latvia's squad for their upcoming fixtures is another promising sign, with GetReading reporting Stam saying:

"He needs to get minutes, work hard and feel comfortable with his ankle."

Callum Harriott, Tiago Ilori and Danzell Gravenberch all remain long-term absentees.