Tired Preston fans can’t wait for the summer as they arrive at the Madejski Stadium. A change in manager, possible play-off/relegation threat and the many arrivals to enter Deepdale has diminished the fans hope of Premiership football. Preston goalkeeper, Andrew Lonergan recently received the player of the year award, but his goalkeeping away from home hasn’t been such a success. In 12 matches, Preston has failed to keep one clean sheet and Darren Ferguson will need to change this recurring problem in the summer. Earlier this season, Reading arrived at Deepdale with an attacking presence. It worked as Reading beat Preston 2-1, something they will want to repeat today.
Vital Quotes:
Reading have always been a good side, they just had a bit of bad luck and had some inconsistent results. It will be a tough game, it is a long way to go for the last game of the season. The Preston fans are going down and we will be giving it our best shot to end the season on a victory.
Reading Team News:
Loanee’s Ryan Bertrand, Andy Griffin and Zurab Khizanishvili will feature in their last game for Reading. Long-term Injury problems sideline Marek Matejovsky, Noel Hunt and Chris Armstrong.
Player to watch: Shane Long
Republic of Ireland international, Shane Long is a player that can create something out of nothing. His attacking aspect of the game could be a threat to the unreliable Preston defence. This season, he has made 27 appearances and scored five goals. His best moment was his goal scoring run, in January and February. The striker scored four goals in three games, including a brace against Plymouth that saw the royals win 2-1. The Reading board will look to offer Shane a new contract in the summer as it expires next season.
Preston North End Team News:
Preston is without Ross Wallace, who is suspended after he picked up his 10th yellow card during the match against Leicester. Paul Coutts has recently had a groin operation and will be recovering, while Keith Treacy and St-Ledger have short term injuries, but will be unavailable for team selection.
Player to watch: Adam Barton
Promising midfield maestro, Adam Barton has recently caught the eye of manager Darren Ferguson and has been included in two Preston games towards the end of the season. Due to his comfortable performances on the ball in reserve and youth games the player was offered a two and a half year contract, in 2008. It is expected that he will be part of Fergusons plans, next season, as Preston build for a play-off push.
Match Facts & Stats
Reading
Shane Long could make his 150th appearance for Reading if included in the starting line-up.
Alex Peace could make his 100th career appearance if included in the starting line-up.
Readings defence has leaked goals and have not won a game in which they have conceded more than one goal.
Preston
Andrew Lonergan has gone 12 matches without keeping a clean sheet.
Elliot Ward could make his 150th career appearance if included in the starting line-up.
Sean St. Ledger could make his 150th appearance for Preston if included in the starting line-up.
Captain Callum Davidson would make his 400th career appearance if included in the starting line-up.
Match Prediction:
1-1:Both teams have nothing to play for, but Reading and Preston`s defence this season has been poor and a draw will suit both sets of fans.
