The Tilehurst End - Wigan Athletic 0-0 Reading FC: Full Match CoverageReading FC blog run by fans, for fans.https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/52568/tte_fav.png2018-11-26T11:00:06+00:00http://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/rss/stream/178734772018-11-26T11:00:06+00:002018-11-26T11:00:06+00:00Wigan Fans Verdict: Royals Snatch A Point From The Latics
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<img alt="Reading v Crystal Palace - Pre-Season Friendly" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Gv1BiLqzTRghR6wR7S0Oc9CI0jc=/0x80:2607x1818/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/62394739/1006799844.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Reading and Wigan produced a stalemate in Lancashire on Saturday, with the Royals gaining just their second clean sheet of the season.</p> <p id="ShQd1D">There are two ways at looking at Saturday’s 0-0 against Wigan Athletic. It’s either a good point and clean sheet or another pretty poor performance where we looked toothless in attack and vulnerable at the back.</p>
<p id="8I3uSG">With games coming up against Leeds United, Stoke City and Sheffield United, Reading should really have been looking at getting all three points in this one if they are to turn around their fortunes. The Latics were there for the taking, and we did cause them a few problems every now and then, but we just lacked the killer touch. We also lacked any defensive awareness in the first half as Wigan had two or three clear-cut chances.</p>
<p id="tv6GFr">The only real notable chances were from Yakou Meite; the Ivorian hitting the post in the first half and getting a well-saved shot away after some good hassling in the second. Other than those, Reading created absolutely nothing.</p>
<p id="gU9dQy">Here’s how the fans reacted to some of the key talking points from the game...<br></p>
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<strong>Danny Loader</strong><br>
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<p id="fM8Iaw">One highlight from Saturday afternoon was the long-awaited Championship debut for under-20 <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/fifa-world-cup">World Cup</a> Winner Danny Loader. The young forward has really impressed in the U23s this season and got his reward against Wigan, coming on for Sone Aluko midway through the second half.<br><br>It was a good little cameo from Loader, you can clearly see that he’s got bundles of natural talent, and if nurtured correctly, could be a really good player for Reading going forward. The fan’s certainly loved his debut...<br></p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">A much brighter second half, we were a bit more creative going forward. Danny Loader and Josh Sims completely changed the game. No idea how we didn't lose that but I'll definetly take the point. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Harrison Mitchell (@harrison1871rfc) <a href="https://twitter.com/harrison1871rfc/status/1066375879935307777?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2018</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Danny Loader is on! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ReadingFC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ReadingFC</a> <a href="https://t.co/xKwhooqJrx">pic.twitter.com/xKwhooqJrx</a></p>— Pedro‼️ (@PictonPedro) <a href="https://twitter.com/PictonPedro/status/1066368630525448193?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2018</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Loader is looking lively. He’s gonna be good! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Ashley (@Ashley_Holloway) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ashley_Holloway/status/1066372605337366528?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2018</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Ahhh Loader looks class already tbf <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Sam ✌️ (@SamiUKOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/SamiUKOfficial/status/1066369505012711431?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2018</a>
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<h2 id="rT14Ff"><span><strong>Chris Gunter</strong></span></h2>
<p id="5649q3">I would imagine that Gunter is a manager’s dream, but he sure splits the opinion of the fans. I was in the crowd at Wigan, and the amount of stick Gunter was getting was incredible.</p>
<p id="lGhGqX">He does have a tendency to pass the ball backwards, and Yiadom would get into our strongest starting eleven over him any day of the week, but Gunter is a good player and has been here for a long time. He’s genuinely cares about our club, and those kind of players are hard to come across these days. </p>
<p id="thdQNF">Here’s what the fans said about his performance on Saturday...</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Today’s a good day, Reading fans chanting ‘off off off off’ to Gunter after a terrible tackle. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Micah (@ME14Ding) <a href="https://twitter.com/ME14Ding/status/1066354302443286528?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2018</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Can’t believe I’ve just seen Gunter pass the ball forward <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Charlie (@CaigerRfc) <a href="https://twitter.com/CaigerRfc/status/1066353029648183296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2018</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">'Gunter slow to react' 'Gunter backs off' .........get him off !!! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Neil Palmer (@neilpalmerphoto) <a href="https://twitter.com/neilpalmerphoto/status/1066363258771263489?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2018</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">He wears his heart on his sleeve and gives his all for this club. The jeers and boos and “banter” we (including myself in the past) have shouted at him are ridiculous. We are in a perilous position that we need to get out of and we desperately need to back the boys... <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Dr. King Schultz (@Adamhumphries44) <a href="https://twitter.com/Adamhumphries44/status/1066443895234547712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2018</a>
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<h2 id="tBSuNr"><strong>Paul Clement’s starting line-up</strong></h2>
<p id="Ye2Eyl">It’s something that’s got the fans talking a lot this season. Clement has continuously made big decisions in his starting lineups, and Saturday was no different. Leaving usual fixtures in the side Andy Yiadom and Leandro Bacuna on the bench was a big one. He may have had one eye on Leeds on Tuesday, but we’re surely not in a position to be resting two of our most important players?</p>
<p id="iNFzVS">Sone Aluko managed to get into the team again, to some astonishment from the fans. I don’t understand where it’s gone wrong for Aluko at Reading but it’s clear to see he’s just not up to scratch. The midfield trio of Kelly, Swift and Rinomhota also raised a few eyebrows, with no real ball-winning midfielder in there. Here’s how the fans reacted...<br></p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Imagine going away from home and thinking Gunter, Kelly, Swift and Aluko starting together is a good idea..... As lightweight as it gets. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ReadingFC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ReadingFC</a></p>— Nath St Paul (@NathStPaul) <a href="https://twitter.com/NathStPaul/status/1066335433183899648?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2018</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Bit disappointed with that line up to be honest, I think Bacuna has be really good recently and looked more mature, Yiadom in general has been one of our best players. Never delighted to see Aluko start he's had so many chances, and looks pretty lightweight all round <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Tom Maynard (@ttmaynard) <a href="https://twitter.com/ttmaynard/status/1066341797625020416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2018</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Is PC trying to sack himself by playing Aluko? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/readingfc?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#readingfc</a></p>— Zac Cologne (@ZacLONDON_31) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZacLONDON_31/status/1066360803463503874?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2018</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Lineups <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ReadingFC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ReadingFC</a> <a href="https://t.co/Jbh6yBrVlm">pic.twitter.com/Jbh6yBrVlm</a></p>— Rich (@Besty240) <a href="https://twitter.com/Besty240/status/1066337621641764864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2018</a>
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<h2 id="Nygy3b"><strong>Conclusion</strong></h2>
<p id="V9uECY">I feel this was a bigger game than people thought. We have a seriously tough group of fixtures coming up now that we need to get points from.</p>
<p id="ODKCLX">It’s looking bleaker by the minute for Clement, as you would have to think if he doesn’t get at least one win in the next couple of games, he’ll be under even more pressure than he already is. Up next, it’s Leeds United away on Tuesday.<br><br>URZ</p>
https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2018/11/26/18111424/wigan-athletic-fans-verdict-royals-snatch-a-point-from-the-latics-reading-fcharry.chafer2018-11-26T07:30:03+00:002018-11-26T07:30:03+00:00Further Reading: Why The Royals’ New System Didn’t Work
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<img alt="Reading v Crystal Palace - Pre-Season Friendly" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Ua7mIwyjTfTVDhf2A6CT2L-_of4=/0x410:2591x2137/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/62394759/1007006478.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>A closer look at the tactics Paul Clement tried against Wigan Athletic.</p> <p id="FaoYjA">Paul Clement tried out a new system for Reading at Wigan on Saturday, and suffice to say that it didn’t work out very well. I talked about it on the this week’s podcast, but it’s taking a closer look at what the manager tried - and why it wasn’t a good idea.</p>
<p id="R77bpe">The line-up</p>
<p id="IknAUc">First up, the team selection. Clement made several adjustments to the side that drew 2-2 with <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/soccer/football-league-championship/teams/ipswich-town">Ipswich Town</a> two weeks ago. <span>Chris Gunter</span>, John Swift, Sone Aluko and <span>Garath McCleary</span> all came in for Andy Yiadom, Leandro Bacuna, Modou Barrow and Sam Baldock respectively. </p>
<p id="70NiCC">Straight off the bat, those aren’t great changes. Although they were all to an extent enforced (Barrow and Baldock unavailable, Bacuna and Yiadom recovering from lengthy international break journeys), Reading went into Saturday’s match without four of their more reliable players (feel free to disagree). </p>
<p id="xNu1Xa">Clement kept Reading in their familiar 4-3-3, but made some slight alterations, setting the Royals up like so:</p>
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<figcaption>Reading’s new-look(ish) 4-3-3, Wigan Athletic (away)</figcaption>
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<p id="pSPkJm">On the whole there’s nothing revolutionary there, but note a few things: how tucked-in the wingers are, and how deep Swift was playing. You’d usually expect him to be higher up the pitch, but against Wigan he was much closer to his own goal. </p>
<p id="gvcRhe">A quick side-note here before we move on - that formation above is my interpretation of how Reading were set up. At various points during the match it wasn’t particularly obvious what roles certain players were supposed to take, who was meant to track runners, and so on. Whether you put that on the personnel, manager or both is up to you (I lean towards blaming Clement - it’s his responsibility to set his team up properly).</p>
<h3 id="XqmPOP"><strong>The midfield was a mess</strong></h3>
<p id="VlqMKv">The most obvious problem with that side is the lack of balance in the midfield. Without Saeid Ezatolahi, Leandro Bacuna or indeed even David Meyler, there was little steel or presence to protect the back four and allow the more creative options to strut their stuff. That of course is nothing new, and Clement should look for another holding midfielder in January.</p>
<p id="VpJCjV">Anyway, back to the game. Individually, I have nothing against any of those three midfielders playing, but when you put them all together, it just doesn’t work. Liam Kelly has done a good job settling back into that ‘deep-lying playmaker’ role in recent weeks and again didn’t look too out of place. Similarly, Andy Rinomhota showed the same tenacity and composure which caught the eye in his first league start against Bristol City.</p>
<p id="1VwqWN">John Swift though was a real problem. As Dave pointed out in our match report, the former Chelsea man “as a creative force... was lacking”. Although I agree with that, it’s not just a case of ‘Swift didn’t play well’ - rather, the team wasn’t set up to maximise his strengths. To illustrate that, here’s where his touches came against Wigan (Reading shooting right to left):</p>
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<figcaption>John Swift’s touches vs Wigan (away)</figcaption>
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<p id="huINer">For someone best deployed as an advanced playmaker, he wasn’t getting anywhere near close enough to the opposition’s penalty area. Swift actually had more touches than any other Reading player on the day but, as you can see, most of them are in his own half, and he ain’t gonna score goals from there. Those two long lines you can see are his only shots, and he also attempted no dribbles in the match. </p>
<h3 id="zLBhu1"><strong>The wingers were far too narrow</strong></h3>
<p id="ck8a2y">To be fair to Swift, he may have been told outright by Clement to play a deeper role, with two teammates (Garath McCleary and Sone Aluko) lining up in the central attacking positions he would normally operate in. That was, for me, a big tactical mistake from the manager - McCleary and Aluko’s starting positions were too narrow, and as a result Reading struggled to stretch the play in the final third. </p>
<p id="q186WU">Below are all the touches made by those two - again, Reading are shooting right to left. </p>
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<cite>WhoScored</cite>
<figcaption>Garath McCleary and Sone Aluko’s touches vs Wigan (away)</figcaption>
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<p id="KRQhJ5">As you can see, McCleary and Aluko didn’t get on the ball enough in key areas around the box - or in the penalty area at all for that matter. You won’t be surprised to know that, between them, they had just one shot at goal, played two key passes (passes that create a chance), and put in three crosses from open play. You’ll be even less surprised to hear that all of those came from Garath McCleary. </p>
<p id="kMPmJq">Let’s take away all of the Jamaican’s touches on Saturday, leaving only Aluko’s. You can probably see where this is going...</p>
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<cite>WhoScored</cite>
<figcaption>Sone Aluko’s touches vs Wigan (away)</figcaption>
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<p id="CPjEgo">Whether it’s Paul Clement’s instructions, or his own failings as a player, Aluko isn’t getting on the ball in dangerous areas anything like as much as he should do. If you zoom in, you’ll see a dot right in the top left of the graphic - it’s where Aluko’s taken three corners. Considering that he’s only got on the ball two other times in the final third (the top of the box), it can be said that - statistically - Sone Aluko’s best chance of touching the ball in a dangerous area is for Reading to have a corner. </p>
<p id="YHGu2V">It gets even worse when you throw in the fact that substitutes Danny Loader (67 mins), Josh Sims (74 mins) and Marc McNulty (78 mins) all had touches in the box, whereas Aluko didn’t. On the whole this - like the midfield balance conundrum - is nothing new, and I even wrote about this failing of Aluko’s game at the start of the season. </p>
<aside id="na7gco"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Further Reading: In Search Of The Enigmatic Sone Aluko","url":"https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2018/8/9/17661266/in-search-of-the-enigmatic-sone-aluko-reading-fc-royals"}]}'></div></aside><p id="DxaYcj">It’s not an easy problem to solve, especially when Aluko’s confidence is at rock-bottom (not helped by his own fans jeering him, whether you think that’s justified or not), so Clement will have to come up with something clever if he wants to turn the player’s fortunes around. He can start by telling the former <a href="https://cottagersconfidential.sbnation.com/">Fulham</a> man to get into the final third as often as is humanly possible. </p>
<h3 id="G0pnfL"><strong>A poor use of full-backs</strong></h3>
<p id="13ulR7">Wingers playing narrowly can work well if you’re got full-backs that can add width themselves. Indeed, McCleary and Aluko cutting inside did provide some room on the flanks for full-backs to attack, but Reading didn’t have the personnel to take advantage. </p>
<p id="jSNQLY">For me, there are two different types of attacking full-backs: those that can beat a man themselves with their own acceleration and pace, and others that rely on a winger helping them out. Andy Yiadom is a good example of the former, but Chris Gunter and Tyler Blackett - neither of whom are particularly quick or confident when running at defender - are good examples of the latter. </p>
<p id="PF2OZd">We saw this in the 2017 play-off final when, being played as wing-backs, Gunter and Blackett were tasked with providing pretty much all of Reading’s width. However, Huddersfield didn’t find it too hard to pin them back, and the team looked short on ideas as a result. It was a similar story at Wigan, when those two couldn’t impact the game enough in the final third. Gunter and Blackett attempted just five dribbles between them on the day - four in the Latics’ half. However, only one dribble was successful (which Tyler Blackett made near his own area). </p>
<p id="yrepCD">The cross stats aren’t any better; Gunter and Blackett putting in three crosses in 90 minutes. In fact, Reading went more than an hour without either of their full-backs putting in a cross. That’s a crying shame as, in Yakou Meite, we’ve got a striker who loves to have crosses swung in for him to attack in the air. </p>
<p id="JrCqtA">To be clear, I’m not just having a go at the players - a poor choice of system let the team down. Gunter and Blackett sorely needed help out wide at the DW and didn’t get it. Blackett in particular has shown on previous occasions that he’s capable of putting in a lethal cross, but the team selection around him has to be right if we’re to make the most of his skill.</p>
<h3 id="NNxMLT"><strong>In summary</strong></h3>
<p id="BmjZI5">This system <em>could</em> work, but not with this personnel. If I were Paul Clement, I’d suggest three main areas to alter: toughening up the midfield, throwing in some more proactive forwards, and switching the full-backs. Obviously, those changes are easier said than done, what with our current injury issues. Saeid Ezatolahi and <span>Jordan Obita</span> in particular would improve this side a fair bit, but we’ll have to make do without them for the short term at least. </p>
<p id="BxjQyq">Nonetheless, bringing in Leandro Bacuna for John Swift, Andy Yiadom for Chris Gunter, and Josh Sims for Sone Aluko are three changes that can be made as early as Tuesday night’s trip to Elland Road. You’d get energy in the middle from Bacuna, an attacking threat down the right from Yiadom, and both confidence and creativity from Sims - which he showed at Wigan. </p>
<p id="RQnXiI">Looking at alterations to the system itself, pushing the wingers back out wide could give them more space to attack and offer the full-backs more protection. Then again, taking players out of the middle could be suicidal in tough away games... like the one coming up at Leeds. I certainly don’t envy Paul Clement having to make these decisions on matchday. </p>
https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2018/11/26/18111010/further-reading-fc-why-the-royals-new-system-didnt-workBucksRoyal2018-11-25T15:52:43+00:002018-11-25T15:52:43+00:00The Tilehurst End Podcast Episode 176: Welcome To The Post-Gourlay Era
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<p>After the CEO hands in his notice, the Royals continue their middling performances on the pitch.</p> <div id="bfcDQ7"><iframe src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/t2dgc-a01f55?from=yiiadmin&download=1&version=1&skin=3&btn-skin=101&auto=0&share=1&fonts=Helvetica&download=1&rtl=0" height="122" width="100%" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player"></iframe></div>
<p id="FamLIk">Anyone hoping for an instant return to the Reading FC of old was brazenly mistaken on Saturday as the Royals took to the pitch for the first time after Ron Gourlay’s resignation as CEO to draw 0-0 with Wigan Athletic.</p>
<p id="DxxDsf">The point keeps Paul Clement’s out of the drop zone on goal difference and TTE Podcast returns to understand how the game in Lancashire panned out, as well as discuss Gourlay’s exit in-depth, answer your questions in the mailbag, and preview Tuesday’s daunting trip to Leeds United.</p>
<p id="uVjtsB">An awesome front three of Simeon ‘BucksRoyal’ Pickup, Olly Allen, and Roger Titford appear on the show alongside host Marc Mayo. Roger’s latest book on the Royals, <em>Roy Bentley’s Stationary Club</em> is out now and he pops by to discuss it in the Pubchat section of the show.</p>
<p id="t0Z6YL">The book is on sale for £12 at the Megastore, where there will be a signing before the Sheffield United game on December 8. It’s also available via the When Saturday Comes book shop at https://shop.wsc.co.uk/books.html (postage free).</p>
<p id="MYO59w">The Tilehurst End Podcast can be taken in via <a href="https://thetilehurstend.podbean.com/"><strong>PodBean</strong></a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6aQZnCxP2bn6zlQS5zJOcA"><strong>YouTube </strong></a>or <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fitunes.apple.com%2Fgb%2Fpodcast%2Ftilehurst-end-reading-fc-podcast%2Fid683251263%3Fmt%3D2" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank"><strong>iTunes</strong></a>. Furthermore, thanks to all listeners who continue to pledge to our <a href="http://www.patreon.com/thetilehurstend"><strong>Patreon </strong></a>campaign.</p>
<p id="HD1Djf">Listeners can always get in touch with the podcast via our Twitter and Facebook pages as well as our email, thetilehurstend@gmail.com, with thoughts on the show, opinions on the team, and potential topics to sink our teeth into always welcome.</p>
<p id="UQJNcO"><a href="https://thetilehurstend.podbean.com/mf/play/facrai/Episode_176.mp3">Download the show here.</a></p>
<div id="Ni811I"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.2493%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0jRiatgyQcs?rel=0" style="border: 0; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media"></iframe></div></div>
<h3 id="PEdj23">Show Order</h3>
<p id="zwieSR">Wigan Recap - <strong>02:18</strong></p>
<p id="LYIhuj">Gourlay’s Departure Newsbites - <strong>14:50</strong></p>
<p id="ibflgS">Roy Bentley’s Stationary Club Pubchat - <strong>24:55</strong></p>
<p id="XZNrM8">Mailbag - <strong>38:02</strong></p>
<p id="0YOcNP">Leeds Preview - <strong>50:47</strong></p>
https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2018/11/25/18111105/reading-fc-podcast-tilehurst-end-gourlay-wiganMarc MayoBucksRoyalOlly_Allen2018-11-25T12:00:05+00:002018-11-25T12:00:05+00:00Paul Clement On A Fair Point At Wigan
<figure>
<img alt="Fulham v Reading - Sky Bet Championship" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/UTt-i-yrqARM83mjQWXhqyiYYdM=/39x0:5115x3384/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/62393225/944383856.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The manager’s reaction to a 0-0 draw at the DW.</p> <p id="f5r80J">The Royals were back in action after the international break and, after the big news that broke from the club earlier on in the week, a win was important to carry on the positive mood. It finished 0-0 against Wigan Athletic, but there were positives from the afternoon at the DW Stadium. Danny Loader made his league debut, we picked up a clean sheet and took home a point which leaves us 20th. </p>
<p id="t3qKBW">Here is what Paul Clement told the <a href="http://www.readingfc.co.uk">official club website</a> and <a href="https://www.football.london/reading-fc/reading-fc-boss-paul-clement-15460158">Football.London</a>.</p>
<h3 id="DES564"><strong>Clement on the performance</strong></h3>
<blockquote>
<p id="EPHOpY">“I thought it was a good game for a 0-0 - both teams going at it and trying to get the right result for their side. Our performance was very committed. It was only our second clean sheet of the season and it came away from home, which is very positive.</p>
<p id="q6Afpm">“Although they had a couple of good chances and got quite a few crosses into our box, I thought we finished the stronger side. And if anyone was going to nick it, I think we looked the most likely.”</p>
</blockquote>
<h3 id="3j0zRu"><strong>Clement on playing a new system</strong></h3>
<blockquote>
<p id="aZzmc8">“We did something a bit different with our system today. It should that we could really cause the opposition problems, but it did have some weaknesses that they did expose. No system is perfect they all have their strengths and weaknesses. </p>
<p id="nKk9FV">“But I was pleased with the players and the way that they took on the board the points that we made during the week. And although we don’t feel elated, because we didn’t win the game, we do feel satisfied with the effort and commitment that was put in and we got a deserved point away from home.”</p>
</blockquote>
<h3 id="n8qJw0"><strong>Clement on Sone Aluko starting</strong></h3>
<blockquote>
<p id="ShIxoF">“He deserved an opportunity just from his professionalism and how he’s got his head down and continued.</p>
<p id="pkCfoe">“The same with Gunter and I thought the system suited those players. But all the subs did well when they came on. They were focused and they made us better because they were fresh and concentrated. </p>
</blockquote>
<h3 id="i0Csv4"><strong>Clement on Sam Baldock and Modou Barrow’s absences</strong></h3>
<blockquote>
<p id="zamjBg">“He has a hamstring issue - it’s not serious. It might go to three games but hopefully it’ll only be two. He is running already so hopefully it’ll be a quick turnaround. </p>
<p id="x2GMuR">“Mo Barrow is very doubtful for Tuesday at Leeds.”</p>
</blockquote>
<h3 id="pbqZxG"><strong>Clement on squad morale</strong></h3>
<blockquote><p id="iZdw2c">“We would have been really disappointed if we had lost the game. We didn’t win so we won’t get too excited. We’ll train on Sunday morning and Monday and then focus on the next game.”</p></blockquote>
<h3 id="uR77Si"><strong>Clement on the current injury list</strong></h3>
<blockquote><p id="MRo8oL">“I do have options - you only need to look at the bench to see any of them could have been in the starting side. That’s what I now have to consider going into the next game.”</p></blockquote>
<h3 id="MOWIc0"><strong>Clement on the unbeaten run</strong></h3>
<blockquote><p id="8a0MX2">“We want to try and win every game. It you don’t win then don’t lose. That’s even more beneficial away from home. It’s a satisfactory record and it’s better than runs in previous months.”</p></blockquote>
<h3 id="8kXZd8"><strong>Clement on Danny Loader</strong></h3>
<blockquote>
<p id="pBegXr">“He’s deservedly got his chance based on what he’s done with the U23s and the way he’s trained. When he went on he understood absolutely what he needed to do. He looked comfortable, showed his quality and he’s an exciting prospect for the future of the club.</p>
<p id="ppSvWd">“We’ll give him all the help we can to try and develop him and it’ll be down to him to take that opportunity. If he’s good enough and takes his chances then he’ll be ready to start games.”</p>
</blockquote>
<h3 id="qoOgbG"><strong>Clement on Conor Lawless travelling with the squad</strong></h3>
<blockquote>
<p id="MpzUMd">“He’s a good player and has been training with us. He’s a good prospect. I could have brought a couple of older players like Ryan East but it’s better for him to play so he did last night.</p>
<p id="p0GnwZ">“But we brought Conor so it’s not a shock to him when he does step up. He can smell the dressing room and can be involved so he’s good to have around.”</p>
</blockquote>
https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2018/11/25/18110911/paul-clement-on-a-fair-point-at-wigan-reading-fc-royalssophierfc102018-11-25T10:46:33+00:002018-11-25T10:46:33+00:00Wigan Athletic 0-0 Reading: Match Report
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/D-4w6_bt35ZwUOB-ZxxkCPKBj6E=/0x0:4032x2688/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/62393187/IMG_20181124_161626.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Reading in action at the DW Stadium | Simeon Pickup</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Two points dropped. </p> <p id="XQZS5I">On a cold day in the north-west of the country, Reading visited a Wigan Athletic side which, similarly to us, have been fighting for form. Indeed, Wigan’s run has been worse recently than Reading’s, with no wins in their last four or even a point, so both teams would have been looking for a decent performance and three points from this one.</p>
<p id="g6Hb8B">What happened was, as usual, teams that are that close cancel each other out, leaving it to be a dire game for which in reality a point did neither team any favours. So to the game itself, I am going to try to point to positives, but this may be hard to do, as from Reading’s side there were precious few.</p>
<div id="M5zhT6">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">⚡️ TEAM NEWS ⚡️<br><br>Here's our team to face <a href="https://twitter.com/LaticsOfficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@LaticsOfficial</a> in the <a href="https://twitter.com/SkyBetChamp?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SkyBetChamp</a>...<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WIGvREA?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WIGvREA</a> <a href="https://t.co/u4z0ZPnkZQ">pic.twitter.com/u4z0ZPnkZQ</a></p>— Reading FC (@ReadingFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ReadingFC/status/1066330605237997568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2018</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<h2 id="xCE8KF"><strong>First half</strong></h2>
<p id="Xoe0Kg">To be fair, Reading started with a little positivity; an early run from Garath McCleary causing havoc in the Wigan defence, but his final ball found Yakou Meite who was just offside. Wigan then upped the ante, and started to cause problems for a Reading team lacking in any sort of game-plan.</p>
<p id="14XOoY">John Swift was a prime example of this and looked lightweight in midfield, highlighted nine minutes in when he was pushed far too easily of the ball, which luckily only led to a corner. The game continued on in this vein with Reading being sloppy in possession, getting muscled off the ball and Wigan largely being wasteful. This was highlighted on 15 minutes when Nick Powell put a powerful header wide of the post with Anssi Jaakkola beaten.</p>
<p id="wQrSrZ">That’s not to say that Reading created nothing. On 19 minutes Andy Rinomhota made a surging run through midfield, linking well with McCleary prior to a shot just wide from Meite.</p>
<aside id="3deZIK"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Wigan Athletic 0-0 Reading: Player Ratings","url":"https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2018/11/24/18110117/wigan-athletic-0-0-reading-fc-player-ratings-royals"}]}'></div></aside><p id="Bn0z1c">However, the wasteful Wigan team continued to spurn chances, with Anssi pulling off some stunning saves in goal for Reading, one of which was a power attempt from Powell that forced a reflex save from the Finish stopper which went for a corner. From the resulting set play Wigan did have the ball in the net, only for us to be saved by the linesman’s flag. Had we a player on the line then this would have surely counted.</p>
<p id="ATN0Ul">The rest of the half continued in this style with Wigan missing a number of chances from free headers and finding Anssi in fine shot-stopping form. The most Reading had to show from this half was a couple of flashed balls across the box, and a yellow card for Chris Gunter after a tackle on a Wigan player which was certainly in the ‘agricultural’ column.</p>
<h2 id="2l62gV"><strong>Second Half</strong></h2>
<p id="SSy3Pm">Well the plus side is that we didn’t concede in the first ten minutes. although Wigan continued from their first half efforts by missing some good opportunities early on. Tyler Blackett made a little bit of a mockery of Clement’s comments about Wigan being a ‘hard’ side with a crunching tackle on the 58<sup>th</sup> min which helped Reading push forward, and ended up with Swift being brought down on the edge of the box. However, his free-kick was wasted with a disappointing shot over the bar.</p>
<p id="RRTxeX">Meite showed a good part of his game when he chased down a long ball over the top of the defence, giving the defender something to think about and, when the Wigan player hesitated, Meite nicked the ball, having a shot and forcing a corner. Swift forced the Wigan keeper into a fine save on 65 minutes with a sharp effort from 25 yards out.</p>
<p id="nsEMU0">Then the moment that the fans have been crying out for: Danny Loader being given a chance. With chants of “He’s one of our own!” ringing out, the young England international took the field. Maybe this was a hard game for him to affect, but what he brought was a little directness. His pace started scaring the Wigan defence and, while he didn’t have a shot on target, he was a constant threat.</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Reading v Crystal Palace - Pre-Season Friendly" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/uKlsKIHbPiSdjCndShSvFAmThnI=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/11957721/1006832872.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images</cite>
<figcaption>Sone Aluko had another poor game</figcaption>
</figure>
<p id="kV1MEa">After doing nothing to affect the team for 65 minutes, in the space of just 10, Paul Clement played all his substitutes. For me this was a little late in the day, with it being obvious that Aluko was struggling to get into the game after the first 45min. I do feel for Aluko in this team, as it’s obvious that he is trying, but he’s not getting the luck or the breaks that he can build confidence from. Clement swapped Meite off for Marc McNulty and McCleary for Josh Sims, and to be honest all three subs made a difference, and you could argue that they could all push for a starting position against Leeds United on Tuesday.</p>
<p id="x3awj4">Towards the end of the game there was a period of pinball in the Reading defence, before finally being cleared off the line. With the game petering out, the three subs once again linked up for Loader to have a snapshot which got blocked and forced a corner.</p>
<h2 id="xv3A4l"><strong>Thoughts</strong></h2>
<p id="tiBtSL">And that was that. Paul Clement on the radio claimed that it was an entertaining and interesting game. He was obviously watching a different match to the rest of us as, for me, it was turgid. There was no composure, no tempo and while the majority of the Reading fans will scapegoat Aluko for this performance, my finger of blame points firmly at Swift. </p>
<p id="Z72RYk">He seemed more intent on kicking players than creating anything and, as a creative force, he was lacking. It’s clear that Kelly and Swift don’t work in midfield. I don’t know why – it’s the old Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard problem that England have – they should work together but they just don’t. </p>
<p id="zt6NPg">Leandro Bacuna must be livid that he was dropped, and similarly Andy Yiadom could have a slight claim on this fact as well, let alone Tiago Ilori (to be fair John O’Shea wasn’t awful). I can only presume that this is with one eye on Leeds. In which case, given that we would need every player on form to beat them, surely, it’s better to secure three points against an opposition where the chances of winning are higher? </p>
<p id="uCdezE">The formation didn’t work either. It was too easy for Wigan and a better team would have hammered us. The comments that Clement is coming out with are mind-boggling. The man is trying to sound like he had a plan when, to anyone at the game, it was obvious that no one told the players. If they did, they really didn’t understand it.</p>
<p id="UhCHwG">People will point to a point away always being a good thing, but this wasn’t. With Leeds on Tuesday, I think people will start praying as we will need divine help to get anything out of it based on our efforts at Wigan.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="ljvvZM">
<p id="iLWdmZ"><em>What did you make of the game? Tell us in the comments below or on social media.</em></p>
https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2018/11/25/18110171/wigan-athletic-0-0-reading-fc-match-report-royalsdavemc_exile2018-11-24T18:10:55+00:002018-11-24T18:10:55+00:00Wigan Athletic 0-0 Reading: Player Ratings
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/D1Nj21HSArAGBneifUWq3g3IK-c=/0x168:4032x2856/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/62390911/IMG_20181124_145940.0.jpg" />
</figure>
<p>Here’s how we graded the Royals in their goalless draw up north. </p> <h3 id="g82Iw5"><strong>Anssi Jaakkola: 7</strong></h3>
<p id="RcdPzg">Made some crucial saves to make sure Reading went home with a clean sheet, although his distribution was unconvincing. </p>
<h3 id="MlWdDK"><strong>Chris Gunter: 4</strong></h3>
<p id="aT9O5f">Weak defensively and didn’t offer much going forwards. His confidence was completely lacking - not helped by a particularly unforgiving travelling contingent - and he had an afternoon to forget. </p>
<h3 id="hM8ehf"><strong>John O’Shea: 6</strong></h3>
<p id="s8ZmO9">Solid display from the veteran who won his headers and did the simple stuff well.</p>
<h3 id="9vGk2Y"><strong>Liam Moore: 6</strong></h3>
<p id="6UaOYF">The same as O’Shea. No scares at the back, and the clean sheet should do his confidence some good. </p>
<h3 id="fteVDF"><strong>Tyler Blackett: 5</strong></h3>
<p id="uudOiE">Not too bad defensively but, like Gunter, he didn’t get forward enough and create in the final third. Needs to be more confident and decisive in getting the ball into the box when he has the opportunity. </p>
<h3 id="ok0qpL"><strong>Andy Rinomhota: 5</strong></h3>
<p id="Budsa0">Composed in possession, hard-working, and offered something different with some driving runs from midfield. </p>
<h3 id="H75iMn"><strong>Liam Kelly: 5</strong></h3>
<p id="UM5z7b">Kept his spot as the deep-lying playmaker and didn’t too badly, but he needs to have a bigger impact on the game than he did. </p>
<h3 id="KboIaC"><strong>John Swift: 4</strong></h3>
<p id="cCMh09">He was presumably brought into the midfield to add some creativity, but he played far too deep for that to happen. Sloppy in possession, and too often easily muscled off the ball. Had a few pops from range in the second half.</p>
<h3 id="ZpUzTv"><strong>Sone Aluko: 4</strong></h3>
<p id="HBwC6q">Another typically sloppy afternoon for Aluko who didn’t make enough happen. Brought off for Loader to jeers from the away end. </p>
<h3 id="zvCcHS"><strong>Yakou Meite: 5</strong></h3>
<p id="xNNptk">Struggled to get into the game, with little service coming his way from his teammates. Hitting the post in the first half was the closest he came to scoring, and he was withdrawn in the second half after a tiring, fruitless afternoon.</p>
<h3 id="SZuri4"><strong>Garath McCleary: 6</strong></h3>
<p id="9FhTYy">The man who looked most like making things happen for Reading on the day. Played most of the game on the left wing, often cutting inside to link up the play and drive at goal, but also stretched the play well. Despite being out injured for so long, he’s already the team’s most reliable winger. </p>
<h2 id="SABFt0"><strong>Subs</strong></h2>
<h3 id="nsOdZ1"><strong>Danny Loader: 6</strong></h3>
<p id="Pu4Q4f">Bright, energetic, and tried to cause Wigan problems by running at their defence. Basically, he showed the confidence and enthusiasm that’s been so conspicuous by its absence this season. He didn’t create much outright, but there’s no reason to take him out of the matchday squad based on his showing at the DW.</p>
<h3 id="3hs1YH"><strong>Josh Sims: 6</strong></h3>
<p id="x504Ml">Similarly proactive to Loader, Sims made himself busy and looked sharp without managing that crucial moment. </p>
<h3 id="tdSR7y"><strong>Marc McNulty: 5</strong></h3>
<p id="Rkp293">Good for him to get some more minutes on the clock, but he couldn’t quite get that all-important chance to grab a winner. </p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="yRtQ6r">
<h3 id="tDbV0t"><em><strong>Average: 5.28/10</strong></em></h3>
<p id="9pJ8Re"><em>Who was your man of the match? Vote in our poll below, or </em><a href="https://linkto.run/p/PZ9P5JTP"><em>through this link</em></a><em>. </em></p>
<div id="6a78yt">
<div id="qp_all2161020" style="width:100%;max-width:600px;">
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<div style="font-size:1em;background-color:#00355F;color:#FFF;font-family:'Open Sans', sans-serif, Arial"><div style="padding:0.8em;line-height:1.3em">Who was your man of the match against Wigan?</div></div>
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<input type="hidden" name="qp_d2161020" value="43429.2132407414-43429.2131991673"><div style="display:block;color:#6B6B6B;font-family: 'Open Sans', sans-serif, Arial;font-size:1em;line-height:1.5;padding:13px 8px 11px;margin:10px 0px;clear:both" class="qp_a" onclick="var c=this.getElementsByTagName('INPUT')[0]; if((!event.target?event.srcElement:event.target).tagName!='INPUT'){c.checked=(c.type=='radio'?true:!c.checked)};var i=this.parentNode.parentNode.parentNode.getElementsByTagName('INPUT');for(var k=0;k!=i.length;k=k+1){i[k].parentNode.parentNode.setAttribute('sel',i[k].checked?1:0)}"><span style="display:block;padding-left:30px;cursor:inherit"><input style="float:left;width:20px;margin-left:-25px;margin-top:2px;padding:0px;height:20px;-webkit-appearance:radio;" name="qp_v2161020" type="radio" value="1">Anssi Jaakkola</span></div>
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https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2018/11/24/18110117/wigan-athletic-0-0-reading-fc-player-ratings-royalsBucksRoyal2018-11-24T09:33:05+00:002018-11-24T09:33:05+00:00Scouting Report: Wigan Athletic (Away)
<figure>
<img alt="Wigan Athletic v West Ham United - The Emirates FA Cup Fourth Round" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/i1B9S9TD42AB3vvXk30C2MbnRQU=/9x13:2154x1443/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/62387953/911017740.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Where could Saturday’s game be won and lost?</p> <p id=":o2">The international break is over, and Wigan are the opposition for Reading this weekend as Paul Clement’s side look to move away from the Championship drop zone.</p>
<p id="qFsW0F">Wigan rank amongst the lowest scoring teams in the division, with only 19 goals so far this campaign, so chances are it won’t be a high-scoring affair. Nick Powell tops the scoring charts for the Latics with only four goals, with Will Grigg misfiring at present with only three goals. </p>
<p id="gun5La">Attacking down the wings will be Reading’s best chance of finding success against Paul Cook’s men, with the Latics facing an average of 18 crosses per game, so the Royals will need to exploit that if they wish to leave with the points. Unlike our past couple of fixtures, we shouldn’t need to be too worried about the threat of conceding from set-plays, as Wigan have only scored from just two all season.</p>
<p id="V3Y2YG">Paul Cook will want his side to attempt through balls often to try and control the game in the Royals’ half. They will also try to use the right hand side as much as possible, so Tyler Blackett may be in for a busy afternoon. 40% of the Latics’ touches at home so far this season have been down the right flank, so this has to be something the Royals are prepared for. Wigan also like to play a lot of long balls, averaging 72 per game. The pace of Will Grigg against the (lack of) pace of John O’Shea will be cause for concern, as we all know the Northern Irishman can be lethal on his day.</p>
<h2 id="cPUiDO">Prediction</h2>
<p id="g76KFZ">I know the Reading’s form has improved lately, but I can’t see Paul Clement’s side walking away with the win on Saturday. We have lost our last three away games, scoring two and conceding eight in the process. We have also won only one game on the road all season, so the chances of grabbing another three points are slim. However, Wigan are on a bad run of form, so I think it will end up being 1-1. Neither side score many goals, so I wouldn’t be surprised if there weren’t any goals at all, but I’ll be positive and go with two. </p>
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https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2018/11/24/18103506/scouting-report-wigan-athletic-vs-reading-fc-efl-championship-royals-dw-stadiumTom Amies2018-11-24T07:37:01+00:002018-11-24T07:37:01+00:00Wigan Athletic vs Reading: Match Preview
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<img alt="Queens Park Rangers v Wigan Athletic - Sky Bet Championship" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/CPS0L4xWBiiqsW8KN2v20rb-xC4=/0x0:4639x3093/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/62388666/1023191342.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Henry Browne/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>It’s the first of two consecutive away games up north for the Royals.</p> <p id="PZkhE6">Championship football returns this weekend after another uneventful international break - well apart from England’s win against Croatia ;) </p>
<p id="DSGvTj">The two week hiatus had put a halt to Reading’s recent revival but has also enabled them to recoup following a gruelling schedule. Paul Clement remains in charge after speculation he would be replaced. His future is still in the balance though as the team looks to break away from the relegation zone in order to better place themselves to recruit during the January transfer window. </p>
<p id="L0rH8s">First up, the Royals travel to Wigan with hopes of kick-starting their form again. Can we bring home the three points or will our poor recent away form continue? </p>
<h1 id="G7r0bT"><strong>Wigan </strong></h1>
<h3 id="f2uU9Z"><strong>Form: WLLLL</strong></h3>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Wigan Athletic v A.F.C. Wimbledon - Sky Bet League One" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/24wGeon2QjjAN-SiZ__8Ks8vvwc=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/13464379/952354410.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Nathan Stirk/Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<p id="6RvQeM">The hosts also seem to be experiencing speculation about their manager’s future, but in this case he is being sort after for another role. Paul Cook has been rumoured to be the leading candidate for the unoccupied Republic of Ireland job after Martin O’Neil resigned on Wednesday. </p>
<p id="K6BDFD">Injury wise, left-back Antonee Robinson suffered an ankle problem while away on international duty for the USA. He joins centre-back Chey Dunkley in the treatment room which means Wigan will be playing with a much-changed defence. </p>
<p id="GWUUwS">The Latics face Blackburn and Bolton after Reading, with a couple more defeats potentially sinking them into the drop zone. However, they have been boosted by the return of striker Will Grigg from injury. The Northern Irishman will look to reignite his famous scoring fire after his time on the sidelines.</p>
<p id="KpxvCZ"><strong>Top goalscorer (all competitions): Nick Powell (4)</strong></p>
<h1 id="3ii683"><strong>Reading </strong></h1>
<h3 id="A8Cya9"><strong>Form: WLLWD</strong></h3>
<p id="efROB7">Despite the international break, Paul Clement still faces plenty of injury worries ahead of his team selection. He confirmed in his press conference on Thursday that Mo Barrow is unwell and will not be selected for the squad. The Gambian winger had only just broken back into the team after being excluded due to “disciplinary issues”. In form Yakou Meite looks set to play after returning from Ivory Coast duty without aggravating his existing injury. Meite is now level with Jon Dadi Bödvarsson as Reading’s top goal scorer with 7 goals. </p>
<p id="bmBWWG">Clement seems to have listened to the Royals fan base by placing Danny Loader in first team training after his impressive form with the Under 23s. With Bödvarsson out for a minimum of six weeks and replacements such as Sam Baldock and Marc McNulty misfiring, we could see the young forward being selected. </p>
<aside id="T77FTx"><div data-anthem-component="actionbox" data-anthem-component-data='{"title":"Weekend Preview Podcast","description":"Olly and Tom look ahead to Saturday’s game as well as discussing Ron Gourlay’s departure.","label":"CLICK TO LISTEN","url":"https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2018/11/23/18108261/the-tilehurst-end-weekend-preview-podcast-wigan-athletic-vs-reading-fc-efl-championship-royals"}'></div></aside><p id="3aqHVe">In the Goalkeeping department, Vito Mannone has returned to first team training after a long injury spell. However, the Italian is still being assessed and is a doubt going into the game. Clement could remain loyal to Anssi Jaakkola after he had displaced Sam Walker for the Ipswich game. </p>
<p id="s8RIMV"><strong>Top goalscorers (all competitions): Jon Dadi Bödvarsson & Yakou Meite (7)</strong></p>
<h1 id="LiHdvA"><strong>Quick Fire Facts</strong></h1>
<ul>
<li id="8DmlKF">Wigan have lost four back to back games since their win over West Brom on October 20th.</li>
<li id="JuODv6">Out of the 17 games played this season, Reading have only failed to score on four occasions (against Nottingham Forrest, Bolton, QPR, Swansea).</li>
<li id="BPd90v">Wigan have failed to score more than two goals in a game since their 3-0 win over Stoke City on August 22nd. </li>
</ul>
<h1 id="8V8KC1"><strong>Prediction </strong></h1>
<p id="hEh3lQ">Whilst the international break has not been kind to either team, it looks like Reading are the more in form side (dare I say) due to their recent revival in results. Wigan were glad to see the break after their four consecutive defeats and their manager is now being linked away. Whilst the Royals have been gaining points in recent games, they are still conceding early and failing to beat relegation rivals. Both sides desperately need a win so the tension will be high. But I can see Reading just edging out Wigan as their key players have managed to avoid injury during the break.</p>
<p id="khFXc2"><strong>Wigan Athletic 0-2 Reading</strong></p>
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https://thetilehurstend.sbnation.com/2018/11/24/18108242/wigan-athletic-vs-reading-match-preview-efl-championship-royalsCBallard7