Reading v Barnsley: Howard back on a mission

The midfielder, who scored the winning goal for the Tykes in an FA Cup tie against Liverpool at Anfield two years ago, is now a Reading player after a disappointing spell with Sheffield United last season.

Although his side have reached the fifth round of this season's FA Cup courtesy of victories over Liverpool and Burnley, they are four points adrift of safety in the relegation zone and desperate to end a run of seven league games without a win.

Howard, who impressed as a substitute in Reading's midweek defeat at Sheffield United, said: "It's a game I am desperate to win. Every time you come up against an old team you want to win. I was only there a year ago and I haven't had the opportunity to play against them since I left. I'll be raring to go from the first minute and be one of those looking to turn it around."