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Brian Howard is desperate for a Reading recall against his old club Sheffield United at Bramall Lane on Saturday
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Howard desperate for Reading FC recall at Sheffield United

By Jonny Fordham
December 01, 2010

Brian Howard is desperate for a Reading recall against his old club Sheffield United at Bramall Lane on Saturday.

Fit-again Howard had to be content with a place on the bench as Royals lost 3-0 in Yorkshire last year.

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But after shaking off a hamstring injury, which ruled him out of two games, the midfielder is hoping to start this season’s fixture.

If selected, Howard could partner another former Sheffield United man Mikele Leigertwood in the heart of the Reading midfield.

“I’ll be doing all I can to get in the manager’s face this week and make sure I’m performing well,” said the 27-year-old.

“I’m really looking forward to going back to Bramall Lane at the weekend. I’m 100-per-cent fit now, so hopefully the gaffer will have a few things to think about. I’m raring to go.”

Sheffield United announced losses of £18.6m last year and Howard admitted: “I had a mixed time there.

“It’s a great club, but I don’t think it’s been managed too well over the last couple of years. It’s sad to see them in that state.

“The club is in great hands now with Gary Speed, though. I hope they do well this season, but only after this weekend.

“I still talk with Chris Morgan and Nick Montgomery. It will be nice to go back and see them.”

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Royals boss Brian McDermott could turn to Howard to add a creative streak to a side that drew 0-0 at home to Leeds last Saturday.

Howard made 34 appearances for the Blades, but arrived at Bramall Lane in October 2008, the season after Leigertwood had left the club for Crystal Palace.

The pair are old adversaries, and Howard revealed: “Mikele’s one of the lads I’ve always had a good battle with and a bit of banter after games.

"He’ll be good for the squad and I look forward to playing with him, rather than against him.”

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Most recent user comments 5 of 5

He's taken over as the 'pointer' in the team, vacant since Harper left, indicating what others should do whilst standing about in space most of the time - when we are under pressure!! Yes, he does make a good pass, infrequently, but we need more than that. He adds to that 'lightweight feel' we convey.

Old Man in the Moon, Woodley
01/12/2010 at 14:04

Smile for the camera.......

Southbank Dave
01/12/2010 at 13:32

I notice a lot of people have leapt to Howard's defence saying that his midfield partnership with Tabb was integral to last years run - perhaps it had some bearing but I suspect that Gylfi, Kebe & Long's goals and overall play had a weightier effect.

This season for whatever reason he looks a little one paced, being generous perhaps he has being carrying the hamstring injury for a while?

In any event a fully fit Howard would be more beneficial than a 75% match ready Howard - Thus Tabb & Karacan for me.

Robsy , Reading
01/12/2010 at 13:18

Awesome photo!

Lester Crinklesack
01/12/2010 at 12:59

Howard said “I had a mixed time there" with reference to his time at Sheff Utd. I'm now going to say “he's had a mixed time here". Maybe this would be a good epitaph one day for him?