Mark Bowen has stated that he is hopeful that Ovie Ejaria will start for Reading against Barnsley this Wednesday night.

The midfielder has been out firstly with illness and then a groin injury but is expected to make a return when the Royals travel to Yorkshire in midweek.

He's been a star performer for Reading so far this season and his dribbling skills has made him one of the best players for fans to watch in the Championship.

Ejaria has become pivotal to this Reading side and he was no doubt missed on the pitch during the defeat to Birmingham last Saturday.

Bowen has confirmed that he's hopeful of a return, and that the issue with the groin is improving.

Speaking to the Reading Chronicle on the possibility of Ejaria playing against Barnsley, Bowen said: “I certainly hope so. On Friday, he had an issue with his groin, and he said it was a little better this [Saturday] morning but still really feeling it.

“If it’s an inflammation issue it should settle down quickly with medication.”

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The Verdict

It's a massive boost for the Royals to have Ejaria back for what is a massive game near the bottom of the table. If he can come back and continue his rich vein of form, then there's a great opportunity that he can help Reading win the game on Wednesday.

The Liverpool loanee is proving to be a class above and has received a lot of praise from supporters and pundits alike who believe he could go onto be something very special.

Himself and John Swift have formed a partnership in the middle of the park but they have to keep that consistency to ensure that they can push Reading up the table.