LIAM Moore is expected to be fit to start for Reading FC against Brentford FC despite concerns over his shoulder.

The vice-captain dislocated his shoulder in the recent 3-2 win over Wigan Athletic and appeared to aggrevate the injury in the thrilling 2-2 draw against table-toppers Norwich City in midweek.

But it is understood that Moore will be available to start against Brentford this afternoon (3pm KO).

Manager Jose Gomes was also sweating over the fitness of Modou Barrow after the pacey winger picked up a knock at Carrow Road.

The Gambian forward was withfrawn from the field on Wednesday to prevent worsening the knock and is also understood to be available for selection.

Gomes has been handed a major boost meanwhile as Nelson Oliveira, who was unable to play against the Canaries due to conditions of his loan deal, can return to his forward line.

Promising striker Danny Loader started and scored twice for the Under 23s against Aston Villa yesterday (Friday) and is therefore expected to miss out on a place in the side against the Bees.

Meanwhile, Jon Dadi Bodvarsson, Omar Richards, Jordon Obita, Paul McShane and John Swift all remain sidelined.

Expected line-up

Heres how we expect the Royals to start against Brentford.

Bracknell News:

What the manager had to say ahead of the game

Jose Gomes admitted Royals will be in for one of their toughest tests of the season when they welcome Thomas Frank’s Bees to Madejski Stadium.

The Portuguese, who has been nominated for Championship manager of the month, said his side must be prepared for Brentford’s attacking prowess.

“Brentford play very, very well,” Reading FC quoted him as saying.

“On their day, they are one of the best teams in division and they play very good football.

“They play a passing game with a lot of possession and have a very dangerous attacking dynamic.”

The Chronicle's view

Despite what several pundits have had to say, I strongly believe it’s Reading FC’s home form which will keep them up this season, writes Courtney Friday.

With the exception of a lacklustre performances against ruthless Leeds United and Swansea City, Reading have turned Madejski into a bit of a fortress since Gomes took charge.

Preston North End were on an incredible run of six away wins on the trot before Royals made them look extremely average in their last home outing.

They’ll also be buoyed on by a terrific point in midweek against high-flying Norwich, courtesy of a late Andy Rinomhota wonder goal.

The young midfielder will need to be at his best again today in order to break down Brentford’s possession-based game.

But he has shown the world what he is capable of already this season and I back him to be a key player for the Royals once again.

Nelson Oliveria coming back into the side is also a major boost while Yakou Meite and Mo Barrow both look untouchable at the moment.

That, coupled with a solid defensive partnership in Liam Moore and Matt Miazga, should be enough to give Reading a 2-1 win this afternoon.