Reading striker Marriott out for 'a number of weeks'

Reading head coach Leam Richardson expects striker Jack Marriott to be missing for "a number of weeks" with an ankle injury.

The 32-year-old did not feature in the Royals' 1-1 draw with Bradford City on Saturday after picking up a knock against Wycombe Wanderers.

Marriott has scored eight goals this season in seven League One appearances, three more than anyone else in the division.

He was spotted at Reading's SCL Stadium over the weekend with a protective boot on, signing autographs for supporters after watching the game from the stands.

"He had a scan late last week which wasn't great," Richardson told BBC Radio Berkshire.

"It's not great news as he's going to be out for a number of weeks, that being said somebody's disappointment is another person's opportunity.

"We have a squad to make sure that we can cope and deal with situations like this and that's what we'll try to do.

"It won't be months and months but I think he'll be out for longer than a couple of weeks."

Seventh-placed Reading's next League One assignment is at MK Dons on Saturday (15:00 BST).