Royals flush with options

The Royals ended a run of five straight draws with a 2-1 win at Derby last weekend and McDermott could name the same XI.

Striker Shane Long scored both goals and will continue in attack alongside Noel Hunt with Jobi McAnuff and Jimmy Kebe on the wings.

Club captain Ivar Ingimarsson (hamstring) completed 90 minutes for the reserves last week and the defender could be involved for the first time this season over the busy festive period.

His Icelandic compatriot Brynjar Gunnarsson (knee) is also back in training but the defensive midfielder is not expected to start.

Irish defender Julian Kelly (hamstring) is another injury concern but was not expected to compete for a first-team berth.

Source: PA

Source: PA