Reece Oxford held from Reading lineup due to ‘minor niggle’

Reece Oxford has yet to see any minutes on the pitch in a Reading kit. He has, however, gotten very intimate with his spot on the bench for three out of the four matches since his arrival. Most assumed, and rightly so, his time would be limited given the experience ahead of him at center back. Though new information has recently surfaced that Ox has a bit of a ‘minor niggle’.

The acquisition during the January transfer window gave Royal fans hope their side could surge into a playoff position for a return to the top flight. Reading, who lost to Huddersfield 1-0 today, are currently in 2nd at 60 points with Leeds and Sheffield Wednesday only a victory behind.

Reece Oxford, many believe, is being groomed to take over as the anchor of West Ham United’s defensive line when the time comes. That time might be quickly approaching given the ages of Winston Reid (28)and Jose Fonte (33).

Hopefully the niggle that is keeping Ox out of the lineup is nothing more than that. There is nothing worse as a Hammer fan than watching your loan players ride the bench or reserves throughout their time away. With much of the season already in the books, and a playoff spot on the line, it’s going to be interesting to see if Reece can crack the starting XI.