Reading manager Noel Hunt has confirmed several players are close to returning from injury as the Royals look to revive their League One campaign.
The Berkshire club sit 19th in the table after nine matches, and with Mansfield Town next up, Hunt provided a positive fitness update on his squad.
Defensive Reinforcements on the Horizon
Centre-back Paudie O’Connor has stepped up his recovery, returning to contact training this week after two months out. Hunt said the 27-year-old is progressing well, though the staff are mindful not to rush his comeback.
“Paudie is doing great, he’s back out on the grass. We all want to see him in the team. Without even playing for us we know he’s a key figure for the team,” Hunt told Royals TV. “But we have to remind ourselves that he hasn’t played in two months and one full week of training is too soon for him. This week will benefit him well and then we will see where we go with him.”
Hunt also revealed that Derrick Williams has returned to light running, with the experienced defender recovering faster than expected from his setback. Initially ruled out for up to six weeks, he could be available sooner if his progress continues at the same pace.
Attacking Options Strengthening
The update extended to Mamadi Camara, with the winger’s ankle problem healing ahead of schedule. Hunt suggested the 21-year-old could resume training within the next fortnight, giving the Royals more depth in forward areas as the season begins to take shape.
Reading face Mansfield in 12th place, with the Stags having collected four wins and two draws from their opening ten fixtures. With O’Connor, Williams and Camara nearing full fitness, Hunt will hope his side can climb away from the lower reaches of the table and build momentum before the busy winter schedule.
Writer’s View
Reading’s struggles this season have stemmed in part from an unsettled squad, with injuries limiting Hunt’s ability to select a consistent back line. The news that O’Connor, Williams and Camara are edging closer to returns will be a welcome boost at a critical stage of the campaign.
If the Royals can steady their defence and add attacking options, they should have the tools to move clear of danger and compete more strongly in the middle third of the table.
