Reading v Huddersfield Town: Town are ready to spring Royals surprise

The Royals sit within touching distance of the play-off spots after holding unbeaten leaders Brighton & Hove Albion at the weekend.

While Reading were giving the Seagulls a mighty scare, Town were slipping to defeat at third-placed Burnley.

Coming on the back of a 2-1 loss at home to Derby County in their previous outing, it means the Terriers have a big task on their hands to avoid a third straight loss.

Powell, however, believes his side can spring a surprise and ensure Huddersfield go into the derby encounter with Leeds United on Saturday in buoyant spirits.

“When the odds are against you,” said the Town chief, “sometimes you get the points. We have the capacity to do it.

“The players keep going and trying to push themselves for me, each other and our fans.

“We need them to keep doing that and keep believing.

“Even though we have lost the last two there were elements and passages of play that showed we can live with these teams.

“I am sure our fans will want more wins and that is only right. But we have shown we can compete in this division.”

James Vaughan returns to the squad after suspension, but Sean Scannell (ankle) and Jonathan Hogg (thigh) are again out.

Powell added: “It is about recovery and the mental aspect of going again after 72 hours.

“We went down early and had a training session on Monday afternoon to get ourselves ready for Reading.

“It will be tough, we know that. But for sure, the players will be ready.

“We have been through three game weeks before and have plenty coming up. Then, of course, the next home game is the big one.”

Last six games: Reading WWWDLD, Huddersfield Town DLDWLL

Referee: B Malone (Wiltshire).

Last time: Reading 0 Huddersfield Town 2; August 19, 2014; Championship.

New Aston Villa manager Remi Garde watched his team lose 3-1 at White Hart Lane as Tottenham moved up to fifth in the Premier League table.

Mousa Dembele, after only three minutes, Dele Alli and Harry Kane scored for the hosts, Jordan Ayew netting for Villa.