EFL expert Gab Sutton has posted his predictions for the upcoming League One season and foresees a tricky season for Reading FC.
Following on from last season’s 12th place finish where Reading’s play-off push tailed off disappointingly in the final two months of the season under Leam Richardson, many fans are hoping the team can make a more sustained fight this campaign.
Reading have made four signings so far this summer transfer window, while the only major first-team departure has seen Kelvin Ehibhatiomhan leave.
Many believe that the Royals have the potential to challenge for the top six if they are to keep key players fit, including captain Lewis Wing and top goalscorer Jack Marriott.
Marriott netted 16 League One goals in just 24 games but had his season stunted by injury issues.
Sutton noted Reading’s reliance on Wing and Marriott and said: “Reading would often win through Lewis Wing, with his stunning vision, picking out poacher Jack Marriott for a seasoned finish, but then, when that route got nullified, be found wanting for alternative ideas. “
He continued: “on the one hand, they have a capable core, in cultured goalkeeper Joel Pereira, gritty centre-back Paudie O’Connor, intelligent wing-back Haydon Roberts, Wales midfield talent Charlie Savage and on-loan forward Josh Stokes, who was Stockport’s best player in the Play-Off Final.
“It’s hard to say with confidence, however, that key players will stay fit, or that Marriott, with his conversion rate of 16 goals from an xG of 7.2, will continue to run quite as hot.
“Results might suggest progress, but performances suggest a drop-off.”
He has predicted a 17th placed finish for the Royals.
Meanwhile, he has predicted Jack Wilshere’s Luton Town to win the division, who Reading host on the opening day of the campaign.
He has Plymouth Argyle to take the second promotion spot, while he has picked Reading’s rivals Oxford United to be relegated alongside Bromley, AFC Wimbledon and Burton Albion.
To read the full list of predictions, visit: https://news.bet365.com/en-gb/article/gab-sutton-league-one-1-24-predictions
