The Seasiders have enjoyed a strong start to the campaign, picking seven points from their opening four games.
Their first defeat of the season came away to Barnsley on Wednesday night, with the Tykes picking up a 2-1 win at Oakwell.
Ian Evatt’s side do have positives to reflect on from South Yorkshire, and were ultimately undone by some poor moments in both boxes and what appeared to be a handball in the build-up to the Tykes’ winner.
Blackpool will be looking to bounce back at the Select Car Leasing Stadium against a Reading side who are fresh from a 5-0 victory over Mansfield Town.
There are two fresh injury blows for the Seasiders, with CJ Hamilton ruled out for 10-12 weeks due to a significant knee problem, while George Honeyman won’t be available until the other side of the international break after suffering a calf issue.
Here’s our predicted XI and bench:
13. Andy Lyons of Blackpool during the Sky Bet League One match Barnsley vs Blackpool, 2nd September 2026. (Gareth Evans / Blackpool FC)
Andy Lyons has been a back-up defensive option so far this season. Photo: Gareth Evans
14. SUB: Zac Ashworth
Zac Ashworth will be looking to regain his place in the starting XI. Photo: Gareth Evans
15. SUB: Ilmari Niskanen
Ilmari Niskanen is set to return to the matchday squad. Photo: Gareth Evans
16. SUB: Jordan Brown
Another welcome bit of news for Blackpool will be the return of Jordan Brown - who is set to be available again this weekend. Photo: Gareth Evans
17. SUB: Jerry Yates
Jerry Yates made a goal-scoring Blackpool return at the weekend, but was quieter away to Barnsley. Photo: Gareth Evans
18. SUB: Oli Hunter
Youngster Oli Hunter has been helping to fill the matchday squad in the last few weeks. Photo: Gareth Evans