Des Buckingham seeks his first league victory as Oxford United manager when his team faces Reading at the Select Car Leasing Stadium on Tuesday.
The hosts, currently in the relegation zone, aim to bounce back after a weekend loss to Barnsley.
Match Preview
Reading began December with mixed results in cup competitions, exiting the FA Cup against Eastleigh but winning on penalties against Charlton Athletic in the EFL Trophy.
Despite an early lead against Barnsley in their recent league match, Reading conceded late goals and suffered a 3-1 defeat, remaining in 23rd place.
Struggling defensively with 33 goals conceded in 19 league games, Reading needs improvement to avoid further setbacks.
Under Des Buckingham, Oxford United has faced inconsistency, managing a win in the FA Cup but experiencing a 3-0 league defeat to Peterborough United, dropping from third to sixth in the standings.
They seek a first league win under Buckingham, especially after failing to score in their last three league outings.
The teams haven’t met competitively since August 2004, making this clash an intriguing one.
Team News
Reading remains without Tom McIntyre due to a long-term injury, while Jeriel Dorsett might return after missing several games. Harvey Knibbs, with four league goals, looks to lead the attack alongside Sam Smith.
Oxford United’s Marcus Browne, Kyle Edwards, and Sam Long are sidelined due to injuries, while Stephan Negru might be doubtful. Josh Murphy could be in line for his first league start after his recent substitute appearance.
Possible Lineups
Reading: (4-4-2)
Button;
Yiadom, Bindon, Abbey, Dorsett;
Azeez, Craig, Wing, Mukairu;
Smith, Knibbs
Oxford United: (3-1-2-3-1)
Beadle;
Stevens, Moore, Thorniley;
Brown;
Brannagan, McGuane;
Murphy, Rodrigues, Bodin;
Harris
Prediction: Reading 1-2 Oxford United
Despite Oxford’s winless league run under Buckingham, they might have the edge against a struggling Reading side, securing an away victory.