Reading midfielder James Harper could miss the rest of the season due to a groin injury picked up during training.

Reading’s promotion push has been dealt a blow with the news that James Harper could miss the run-in.

Reading midfielder Marek Matejovsky is hoping to be recalled to the starting line-up as Steve Coppell seeks an end to the Royals’ goal drought.Coppell has persisted with the dogged pairing of James Harper and Kalifa Cisse in midfield in recent weeks but bought on the creative Matejovsky for the last 25 minutes of Saturday’s 2-0 defeat to Bristol City.

Reading manager Steve Coppell has insisted that his captain James Harper is in no danger of losing his place in the side.Harper has come under fire from sections of the Madjeski Stadium crowd this season who would prefer to see the more creative Marek Matejovsky in the middle of the park.

Middlesbrough boss Gareth Southgate will put his trust in his youngsters as he gears up for a Premier League survival fight.The 38-year-old went into the final day of the transfer window not expecting to be able to bolster his squad despite maintaining his long-held interest in Reading midfielder James Harper.

Middlesbrough are hoping to sign James Harper from Reading and Aston Villa’s Nicky Shorey before Monday’s transfer deadline.Reading captain Harper is on his way to Teesside to undergo a medical after talks between the two clubs.

Middlesbrough are hoping to sign James Harper and Nicky Shorey before Monday’s transfer deadline.

James Harper is pushing for a recall to the Reading starting line-up for the club’s home clash against Doncaster on Tuesday.

Steve Coppell says James Harper is happy at Reading, after being linked with a Premier League move.