Reading v Doncaster Rovers: Brooker hopes to finally make an impression

The 29-year-old striker has endured a frustrating time at the Keepmoat Stadium since moving from Bristol City in the summer of 2008.

In his first two seasons with Rovers, he managed just one league start while this time around his involvement has been restricted to three fleeting appearances from the bench and a start in the Carling Cup defeat to Accrington Stanley.

Now Brooker, who has undergone surgery to sort out a troublesome ankle, is hoping to belatedly fight his way into the side and prove an adequate replacement for Sharp, who is out with a hamstring injury.

Manager Sean O'Driscoll said: "It has been frustrating for him. When he trains, he is first class. He looks the part and everyone gets excited, then something comes up. But with Billy out, there is an opportunity."