Reading have been hit with an unfortunate double injury blow ahead of Saturday's game with Middlesbrough, with Matej Vydra and Stephen Quinn both likely to miss the top of the table clash, according to Get Reading.

Quinn has been ruled out with injury
Quinn has been ruled out with injury

Both players were absent for Reading's victory at Burnley last weekend, but were expected to be able to return in time to welcome Middlesbrough to the Madejski Stadium.

However Reading boss Steve Clarke has rated both players as extremely unlikely to return in time for the match, which will disappoint fans who have seen the duo make strong starts to the season.

On Vydra, the Royals boss said: “It’s going to be reasonably short term. He damaged his knee against Bristol City.

“He didn’t make Burnley and if I were to put a figure on it I would say he is probably about 25 per cent to be ready for Middlesbrough. So it’s more likely that he should be back to 100 per cent after the international break.”

On Quinn, he added: “Stephen is similar. He picked up a knock two or three games ago. He showed typical character and determination to play through it but in training last week it started to get a bit too much.

“So he dropped out and will also be doubtful for Middlesbrough. He’s probably got even less of a chance than Vydra to be honest. But hopefully after the international break they will both be available.”

Reading have made a promising start to the season, and currently sit in third place having taken 15 points from their opening nine games.

Meanwhile Middlesbrough travel to Reading in second place, with 20 points, having tasted defeat on just one occasion so far this season.

Aitor Karanka's side are on a seven game winning streak after beating Leeds United 3-0 last time out, but will arguably face their first major test of the season against an in-form Reading side.

This game between two of the Championship's early pace setters could prove pivotal come the end of the season, so it is no doubt bound to be a tasty affair at the Madejski Stadium on Saturday.

Reading fans..... What do you make of this news? Just how much of a blow to your team is this? How important are Quinn and Vydra? Let us know your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!