Church returns to boost Royals

Wales international Church missed the Royals' 4-2 home defeat to Crystal Palace on Tuesday evening with a back injury. The 20-year-old received the knock last weekend but is now back in contention for a starting berth. However, fellow striker Shane Long will be missing for the match as he serves the third and final game of his suspension. Long was sent off for lunging at Derby defender Fredrik Stoor during Reading's 2-1 home defeat at the end of November. Boss Rodgers will also be without long-term absentees Noel Hunt (knee) and Brian Howard, who broke his jaw during the Derby match.