Derby doubts over Hughes
Will Hughes is an injury concern for Derby as they go in search of their first home league win of the season against Reading.
Hughes was taken off five minutes into the second half of the 2-2 draw at Bolton on Tuesday night due to a groin and pelvis problem.
Jamie Ward is expected to remain in the team for what will be his third start for the Rams in eight days and his fifth in 16 days, having played twice for Northern Ireland. Hamstring problems sidelined the forward for three months last season and Derby are trying to manage the number of games he starts in an attempt to avoid a repeat.
Midfielders Jeff Hendrick (ankle) and James Bailey (knee) and centre-halves Shaun Barker and Mark O'Brien (both knee) remain out.
Reading will be without Jem Karacan when they head to Pride Park.
Midfielder Karacan could be facing a long spell on the sidelines after he was carried off on a stretcher with a knee injury during the 1-0 win over Leeds on Wednesday night.
Hope Akpan came on for Karacan and could now start his first Championship match of the season.
Pavel Pogrebnyak returns to the squad after missing out against Leeds through suspension but fellow striker Jason Roberts (hip) and midfielder Mikele Leigertwood (ankle) are still building up their fitness following long-term injuries.
Source: PA
