Reading boss Paul Ince revealed that defender Sam Hutchinson is the only potential injured play close to returning.

Seemingly in an injury crisis all season, the likes of Scott Dann, Naby Sarr, Femi Azeez and Hutchinson have been missing for varying lengths, with captain Andy Yiadom missing from Saturday's 2-0 win over Bristol City with suspension.

While the Ghana full-back is back in the fold for next weekend's trip to Burnley, it is not looking good for the other returning stars.

Reading Chronicle:

"Maybe Hutch," he stated. "He’s one of those that we’ll see. I’d like to get Hutch back, he gives so much leadership and experience. Obviously Yids is back. Others won’t be back until December 10, when we play Coventry."

The Royals face five matches in the next three weeks, with the next five days being the only clear week before the World Cup break from November 12.

Weekend fixtures with the Clarets, Preston and Hull City are supplemented with midweek trips to Luton Town and Watford.

Reading Chronicle:

Already making his stance on fixture congestion perfectly clear, Ince underlined it again on Saturday. 

"Again, I’m going to winge and moan, but after Burnley, we go Luton and then Preston. That’s three games in six days again, I don’t see any of the other teams doing that and I’m not sure why they’re doing it, but they’re doing it. To have this free week to get some rest and just get a win before we go to Burnley because we know that’s going to be tough. They’re a very, very good side and I think getting a win today, you think you’ve got to go up to Burnley and get three points, which we will do anyway, but it just gives us a bit more confidence."