Reading striker Lucas Joao has provided an injury update that should excite Royals fans ahead of the last 15 matches of the campaign.

The Portuguese forward was influential for Reading during their fine run over the Christmas period and scored some important goals against both Derby County and Preston North End.

However, in the victory over Fulham on New Years Day, Joao damaged his hamstring, suffering an injury that it is thought will end up keeping him out for up to three months.

On Monday morning, Joao put up an Instagram story putting on boots with the caption "what a feeling".

Joao's return would be a significant boost for the Royals, as they are currently suffering from goalscoring issues, having netted just four times in the league since his injury.

Reading are currently sitting around the mid-table mark in the division, and face Championship leaders West Bromwich Albion at the Madejski Stadium on Wednesday night.

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The Verdict

It would certainly be a major boost for the Royals if they were able to get Joao back to full fitness by the start of March.

His playstyle was so important to the overall gameplay of Reading and they were looking very dangerous when he was leading the line.

Joao has a lot of potential to go on and be a key man for this Royals side. Mark Bowen's side has actually failed to win a league game since Joao's injury and they won't want this run to continue.

If he can come back sooner than expect then it could help Reading to a top-half finish, which the supporters would appreciate after a tough few seasons for the club.