Preview: Bournemouth vs. Reading

No Championship side, not even runaway leaders Leicester City, has collected more points from their last six encounters than Bournemouth.

The 13 points that the Cherries have amassed during that time has moved Eddie Howe's men into contention for a playoff place.

However, if they are to finish within the division's top six, they realistically need to beat Reading tomorrow night at Dean Court. The visiting Royals currently occupy sixth spot, with five points separating them from their hosts.

Nigel Adkins made four changes to his starting lineup for the weekend's 1-0 win over Charlton Athletic, but he could reinstate at least a couple of players for the trip to the South Coast.

If that is proven to be the case, both Garath McCleary and Hal Robson-Kanu are likely to be in contention.

As for home manager Howe, he will have to make do without the services of midfielder Harry Arter, who is suspended. Eunan O'Kane could deputise for him, while Ryan Fraser is also thought to be pushing for inclusion.

Bournemouth are unbeaten from their last four outings against Reading, winning two of them.

Recent form

Bournemouth: DLWWWW

Reading: WDWLDW

Possible starting lineups

Bournemouth: Camp; Francis, Cook, Elphick, Harte; Surman, O'Kane, Fraser, Pugh; Kermorgant, Grabban

Reading: McCarthy; Gunter, Obita, Pearce, Gorkss; Williams, Guthrie, McAnuff, Robson-Kanu; McCleary, Le Fondre

Sports Mole says: 2-1