Stam boosted by the return of his injured trio
JAAP STAM is set for three early Christmas presents with his Reading squad preparing for an injury boost.
The Royals could welcome back John Swift, Garath McCleary and George Evans back into the squad for this Saturday’s home clash with Burton Albion, the 500th game at Madejski Stadium.
Evans (thigh) has been out since September, McCleary (groin) has not played since victory at Leeds in October while Swift (hamstring) has been missing since November.
All three are back in training and even if they are not risked for the visit of the Brewers, all should have a part to play over the busy festive period where Reading play four games in 11 days.
“You need to take care and it doesn’t mean that because these players are coming back that they need to start straightaway,” said Stam.
“You talk to the physios as well and see how long can they play, is it an hour or is it how we did with Yann (Kermorgant) as well, 45 minutes or maybe less.
“That’s how we approach these players.
“But with the amount of games that we have in a certain period, we can leave them out for one and let them work a little bit more on the training ground to get fit and bring them into the squad for other games.”
Reading sit 14th in the Championship following their 2-0 loss at Ipswich Town and it is set to be a memorable afternoon at the Mad Stad on Saturday when Burton come to town (3pm).
A packed house is expected for the 500th game played at the stadium since it opened in 1998, with tickets sold across the ground for just £5.
“From what I’ve heard it’s a sell-out, so that’s nice,” said Stam. “It’s always nice for the players, for the club and for the fans that are always there.
“The atmosphere because of that is normally better as well.”
He added: “Burton is a good team.
“They’re very solid, they work very hard and have got a certain energy and ability as well.
“Playing against these teams is not easy. The manager has done a great job over there keeping them up in the league.”
A late decision will be made on whether or not to include goalkeeper Vito Mannone, who was due to return from Italy on Wednesday following compassionate leave after the death of his mother.