Reading have named their starting 11 for the visit of Queens Park Rangers as the Select Car Leasing Stadium opens its doors for the first time this campaign. After a 2-0 win over National League Woking on Tuesday, Ruben Selles has named another strong side for the visit of the Championship opposition, with plenty of big names starting from the off.
Joel Pereira gets the nod from the start, while a young back line consists of Tivonge Rushesha; Amadou Mbengue; Abraham Kanu and Andy Garcia.
Lewis Wing; Charlie Savage and Ben Elliott is an exciting midfield trio, with Femi Azeez; Jayden Wareham and Kelvin Ehibhatiomhan all looking to continue their fine form from previous friendlies.
The likes of Harvey Knibbs, Sam Smith and Adrian Akande will all look to impress from the bench and gain valuable minutes ahead of the big League One kick off on August 10.
Reading FC supporters will have Michael Olise regret despite Crystal Palace windfall: View
The Royals had a sell-on clause when they sold Olise to Premier League side Crystal Palace, who have richly benefitted from having the France youth international at their disposal.
At Palace, the Frenchman was given a major opportunity to shine, starting regularly when fit and managing to perform wonderfully for the Eagles in the top flight.
When he left the Select Car Leasing Stadium in 2021, it was unclear whether he was going to be an impact at Selhurst Park straight away.
The Royals were managing his game time during the 2020/21 campaign, even when he was shining, so it was going to be a big assignment for Olise if he wanted to make a good first impression under Patrick Vieira.
But he did fairly well during his first season at Selhurst Park, registering four goals and nine assists in 32 competitive appearances.
Also going on to impress in his following two seasons at Palace, it was no surprise when Bayern made a move for him.
With the Berkshire side entitled to a chunk of the transfer fee, the Royals could have made around £4m or £5m from the 22-year-old’s switch to Germany.
At a time when the Royals desperately need money, this windfall has probably been a huge boost.
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