ASSISTANT manager Alex Rae says Reading FC are looking to add to their squad before the start of the 2022-23 season.
Speaking after Saturday’s 1-1 draw against West Ham, Rae expressed his satisfaction with the Royals’ performance.
The friendly featured a mixture of senior and youth players, as well as three trialists.
Rae said: “I think it was a really good run out. It was different with the conditions, that gave the supporters the opportunity to see what we’ve got at the club at the moment.
“Once we get a few more through the door then we’ll be ready.”
Rae is hopeful Reading can sign trialist Sam Hutchinson, who put in a positive display, backing up his showing against Benfica.
The Scot said: “He brings a level of professionalism and he’s vocal, he’s experienced and he’s fitted in brilliantly so hopefully everything falls into place for that one.”
“We need to have people who can play in multiple positions, if we can. You look at Tom [McIntyre], played centre back today, can play left back, played at Sheffield in the middle of the park.
“The more players who are equally as comfortable in various positions the better really because it gives you flexibility.”
Reading are currently without a recognised senior left-back, a position many fans have expressed concerns about.
With the start of the upcoming campaign just 14 days away, the Royals will be looking to recruit quickly.
“We’re constantly working as hard as we can. We’ve been offered several [left backs] and had [Guiness-Walker] at left back today, we’ll have a look at him.
“We’ll have to keep knocking at the door to get the right one in. The important thing for us is not to dive in and get one that’s not really what we’re looking for.
“We have to keep pushing and try and keep the quality that does come in the door the highest level so that we have a chance to get to where we want to be.”
Shane Long, who re-signed for Reading on Wednesday, came off the bench to make his first appearance in eleven years.
The Irishman did pick up a knock late on, although Rae was convinced it would not set him back.
“The game was played in a proper manner, but [Long] has just taken a smash in the back, but I think he’ll be OK. He’ll be a bit sore in the morning.”
Looking ahead to Tuesday’s fixture against Wimbledon, Rae says the main goal will be to give players more minutes without picking up any injuries.
“You have to prepare properly. As much as you don’t want to lose any games, in pre-season it’s really about trying to get the minutes in.
“One of the biggest fears for us is if we get anyone injured because we have to add, we can’t really afford to be carrying any injuries.”
