Man City v Reading

Last updated : 02 February 2007 By Angus Muller

Stuart Pearce returns to Premiership matters after a week dominated by his appointment as England Under 21 manager, as Manchester City lock horns with Reading.

Pearce will be looking to quash any notion that he cannot cope with his dual responsibilities, but his side face a tough task against high-flying Reading.

City have not played in the Premiership since the 3-0 defeat at home to Blackburn a fortnight ago, and Pearce has been frustrated in his attempts to bring in new players.

Michael Ball, City's only new arrival, could make his debut at the expense of Stephen Jordan at left-back.

Pearce must also decide which strikers to play, with Georgios Samaras, Darius Vassell and Bernardo Corradi all struggling for goals.

Nedum Onuoha will miss the visit of Reading and looks set to be sidelined for some time with a knee injury, while Trevor Sinclair (groin) is also out.

Reading are unbeaten in their last six games and are currently seventh in the Premiership, but Steve Coppell was positive in the transfer market and strengthened his squad further.

Greg Halford should make the bench at least after joining from Colchester, while Michael Duberry looks set to make his debut.

Duberry is likely to be drafted in for defender Ibrahima Sonko, who has been ruled out for the rest of the season with knee ligament damage.

Stiker Shane Long is doubtful with a thigh problem and will have a fitness test prior to kick-off.