VITO MANNONE will not be rushed back into the starting line-up following the tragic death of his mother, Jaap Stam confirmed.

Mannone's mother sadly passed away last week following a stroke, and the Italian has been back to his homeland in the past month before she passed.

He arrived back in England today (December 20) and Stam insists he won't be forced into playing in Saturday's game against Burton Albion.

Stam said: "I'll talk to him and find out how he is.

"Then we'll make a decision about whether he can play on Saturday."

If Mannone doesn't play, it seems likely that Anssi Jaakkola could step into his place for the 500th game at the Madjeski.

Stam also discussed three possible returns to the squad.

John Swift, Gareth McCleary, and George Evans have all been sidelined due to injury.

"Swifty is partially back in training.

"He's feeling better and he's been doing good so we need to make a decision on Friday whether he's available for Saturday.

"That's the same for both George Evans and Gareth McCleary too.

"You need to take care, but just because they're coming back doesn't mean they're going to start straight away.

"We'll talk to the physios and find out how long they can play for."

Reading take on Burton Albion at home this Saturday in the 500th game at the Madjeski.

The Royals will be looking to get back to winning ways after throwing away a 2-0 lead at home to Cardiff City last Monday, and a 2-0 defeat to Ipswich on Saturday.