Leeds (A) Match Preview

Leeds return home after a 1-1 draw at Watford to face Reading who are high on confidence after a superb 3-0 win over West Ham.

Leeds manager Simon Grayson on Alex McCarthy - "I spoke to Brian last Sunday and we agreed it was best for Alex to train down there but Brian assured me that he won`t be asking Alex about Leeds. It would be unfair on the lad.'

Reading boss Brian McDermott - 'They've won a few, so have we. Last year we went there and went there as favourites off the back of an eight game run, which is unusual for us, going to a place like that as favourites. Simon has done a terrific job for them, I really like him as a manager.'

On loan goalkeeper Alex McCarthy is unavailable as Leeds face his parent club so Andy Lonergan will deputise. Captain Jonny Howson is a long-term absentee.

The Scottish international has undoubted talent and will be sure to cause problems on both wings.

Reading will assess the fitness of winger Jimmy Kebe, who has a knock from the West Ham game. Left back Joseph Mills will also miss out.

The Malian winger is starting to find form after a man-of-the-match display against West Ham.

Leeds haven't been the most consistent of teams this season, similarly to the Royals. Hard to predict so I'm going for a 1-1 draw.

Leeds - Derby (A) - 26th December - nPower Championship

Reading - Brighton (H) - 26th December - nPower Championship

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