Reading FC have suffered a significant setback at a crucial stage of the season, with two important players now ruled out ahead of their upcoming clash against Wigan Athletic. The timing of these injuries is particularly damaging, as the club prepares for a demanding run-in during the playoff race.
One of the major concerns is winter signing Benn Ward, who picked up an injury during Reading’s recent match against Burton Albion at the Pirelli Stadium. The incident occurred when Burton striker Jake Beesley appeared to stamp on Ward following a challenge. Despite the severity of the contact, the referee chose not to issue a caution. Ward initially attempted to continue playing and stayed on the pitch for a few more minutes, but the discomfort proved too much to handle. Manager Leam Richardson ultimately decided to substitute him to prevent further damage.
Following the match, Richardson provided an early update, explaining that Ward had been placed in a protective boot and was undergoing medical scans. At the time, the manager expressed concern, noting that the club was not particularly optimistic about the outcome. Subsequent assessments revealed that while Ward would not require surgery, he is expected to be sidelined for an extended period, effectively ruling him out for the remainder of the season.
In another blow, winger Randell Williams has also suffered an injury setback. Williams had only recently returned to action after spending more than six weeks on the sidelines earlier in the year. However, during last weekend’s match against Stevenage, he was forced off in the first half after pulling up with what appeared to be a hamstring problem.
Speaking after the game, Richardson admitted that the situation did not look encouraging. He pointed out that the injury seemed similar to a previous issue Williams had been dealing with since pre-season. While acknowledging that injuries are an unfortunate part of football, Richardson emphasized the need for the club to learn from these setbacks and improve their approach moving forward into next season.
Further medical evaluation was planned for Williams, but the initial outlook was not promising. With only a handful of matches remaining in the campaign, the likelihood of his return before the season ends appears very slim. When asked directly whether Williams would miss the rest of the season, Richardson suggested that it was highly probable.
Overall, these injuries leave Reading FC facing a difficult challenge, as they head into a decisive period without two of their key players.
