Reading FC midfielder Ben Elliott has returned to training after undergoing thigh surgery but remains several weeks away from full fitness, according to manager Noel Hunt.
The 22-year-old, who was a standout performer in the early part of the season, has been sidelined since December following surgery. Despite making progress on the training pitch, he is unlikely to feature for the Royals until April.
Hunt Optimistic but Cautious Over Elliott’s Return
Elliott, who joined Reading from Chelsea, had been growing in confidence and influence before injury struck. His absence has been a blow for the Royals, whose faint play-off hopes have taken further hits in recent weeks.
“He’s on the grass,” Hunt confirmed after Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Crawley Town. “He’s been out for a long time, so he needs to get up to fitness. He’s a few weeks away yet, but we have to keep our hopes up that he comes through with no setbacks and we can get him back.”
Reading’s promotion push suffered further setbacks last week, with the club dropping points against relegation-threatened opposition and losing Michael Craig and Amadou Mbengue for the remainder of the season.
Ben Elliott’s Career
Elliott began his football journey at age eight with Chelsea’s academy. He progressed through the youth ranks, signing his first professional contract in November 2019. In 2023, Elliott transferred to Reading, seeking first-team opportunities. As a central midfielder, he made 22 appearances in the 2024/2025 EFL League One season, scoring two goals and providing four assists.
Internationally, Elliott represented England at youth levels but debuted for Cameroon’s senior national team in 2023, reflecting his dual heritage. He was called up to Cameroon’s senior squad but couldn’t play due to FIFA formalities. On June 10, 2023, he made his debut against Mexico, coming on as a substitute for Bryan Mbeumo in a friendly at Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego.
Writer’s View
Elliott’s injury has been a significant blow to Reading, and while his return will be welcomed, it may come too late to salvage their fading play-off ambitions. The Royals’ struggles against lower-ranked opposition underline their inconsistency, and with Craig and Mbengue now out for the season, Hunt faces an uphill battle to keep his squad competitive in the coming weeks.
