Two games, two systems: Analysing Reading's midfield in August | Stats
In Reading’s Championship-winning campaign last season, manager Brian McDermott played a 4-4-2 system in all but two of their 46 League matches. Yet already this season, the Royals manager has employed two very different central midfield formations in order to combat specific opposition. The summer addition of Danny Guthrie has given Reading a new creative influence in the middle of the park, and his effect is noticeable after just 180 minutes of Premier League football.
Reading’s first match saw them …
Reading - Shorey and Harte: Left-back or left out?
Reading’s summer spending seems to have been completed with six signings all looking to push into the side which won the Championship last season. One of the most interesting battles comes at left-back, as former Royal Nicky Shorey has re-signed to challenge Ian Harte for the shirt. Both players have Premier League experience – Harte most famously with Leeds United, Shorey for multiple clubs including Reading, Aston Villa and most recently West Brom. So who is likely to start against …