The Royal State Of Affairs: Wingers

What we've lost

Jamie Mackie's time in Berkshire is at an end as he opted to play for some other imposters in blue and white hoops just down the M4. Otherwise it's as you were at the Madejski Stadium, although youngster Tariqe Fosu is out of contract and could move on, with Premier League clubs reportedly interested.

What we've got now

Reading are pretty well stocked in the winger department. Garath McCleary signed a deal last season while Nick Blackman is also still under contract for another year. Then there's everyone's favourite talking point, Hal Robson-Kanu who showed his class with Wales the other week but continues to frustrate Royals fans. The aforementioned Fosu also showed a glimpse of his talent in the season ender at Derby while Jack Stacey also showed enough in the run-in to suggest he's got a chance of making it at Championship. Throw in utility players like Jake Taylor and Jordan Obita and there will be plenty of competition for places this pre-season.

What we need

...However, while there's plenty of names in the frame you could put a sizeable question mark by each of those we've named for a variety of reasons. Wingers are often inconsistent but the main trio of Blackman, Robson-Kanu and McCleary all struggled last season and all three will need to step up their game significantly. Likewise having potential is great but it might just be too soon to rely on Fosu and Stacey, particularly if the season starts badly. With that in mind a player with raw pace to compliment McCleary might be a good shout, particularly a left-footed one and someone who's a set piece specialist would be a useful weapon as well. The club might also decide to cash in on HRK or Blackman given both are entering the final years of their respective deals.

Priority rating this Summer?

Low