It is again shaping up to be an interesting season for loyal Reading fans, and although there has been plenty of optimism about the year that lies ahead in some quarters, there remain a number of questions to be answered at the Select Car Leasing Stadium.
New Arrivals
We have seen a number of new signings walk through the door during the pre season build up preparations, and a bit of a spruce up of the stadium to brighten the mood has been very welcomed - particularly as many feel that the 2026/27 campaign will be another rollercoaster with more twists and turns than you can shake a stick at. We have long been one of the favourites in the League One promotion odds discussions, and now we find out how we will actually do.
Whilst gaffer Leam Richardson would no doubt back his new look first XI squad to tear up a few trees this season if everyone stays fit and finds them form for the majority of the scheduled 46 games, our big kick off to the league year against Luton Town last Saturday may have been a predictor of the emotional shenanigans that many have been expecting.
It was far from a poor performance, and there were many early positives to take, albeit crossed with a far poorer reaction to the second half after we had established a 3-1 advantage in the opening 45 minutes. It was a reaction to the Bromley League Cup clash where we needed penalties to progress passed the first round stage.
Further Signings Not Ruled Out
With Richardson not ruling out further signings given the budget he has been handed this summer, it may well be a few weeks yet before we have a properly settled side and the real process of gelling and creating an understanding begins to show itself. There are also potential outgoings to factor in given the rumblings on the speculation rumour mill, and with Charlie Savage being front and centre in that discussion, former EFL and Premier League defender Curtis Davies has been the latest to give his thoughts on the potential outcome.
The 23 year old Leicester native is entering the final 12 months of his current contract following his departure from Manchester United back in 2023. He has been an impressive regular since, racking up well over 100 starting appearances for us (returning ten league goals) and having far less trouble with referee's than his dad, Robbie, had during his playing days. With two international caps for Wales to his name, he has obviously been subject to plenty of interest and rumours given his contractual situation - but the best outcome from our perspective if no new deal is to be signed, is to cash in as opposed to letting him run down his current terms.
Free Agent Departure
Davies feels that the most likely outcome is he leaves as a free agent at the end of the season, particularly as with no fee it is far more likely a Championship level club would come in for him and obviously, that naturally lends itself to Cardiff City. He does not feel that Savage would yet be in the mix for Wrexham given the promotion curve that they are aiming for, but that would understandably be very appealing to the lad as he looks to speed up the process of taking the next step.
Only a couple of weeks left before we find out for sure, and the season could already have a different complexion on it by the time we tick into September.