The Owls striker was born in Reading but has yet to play at the Madejski Stadium.

He can remember only one previous appearance against his home-town club - for Brentford at the Royals' old ground, Elm Park.

But he is back in contention for tonight's game and setting Owls boss Brian Laws a selection headache.

Burton, a key striker in the first few games of this season, was left out last Saturday, suffering from jet-lag after being away with Jamaica, and Jermaine Johnson stepped in with an eye-catching performance up front in the 2-0 win against Watford.

"I saw JJ play up front many times for Bradford; I always knew we could use him there, and we used him a couple of times in reserve games and friendlies," said Laws.

"It's given me food for thought. Deon Burton has looked much more like you'd expect him to be, instead of being jaded, as he was last week. He comes into the equation."

Laws will keep Reading guessing about his line-up until just before kick-off and is again considering a place on the bench for Francis Jeffers.

The Owls boss's bid to extend right-back Tony McMahon's loan will be decided next week after the final game of his initial month, against Ipswich this Saturday.

Laws, who has already sounded out Middlesbrough, said: "They had six players away on international duty and three came back with long-term injuries. Thankfully, none is a full back.

"But they're going to wait until this week is out of the way, then talk about extending his loan.

"I don't see it becoming a major problem unless they pick up a couple more injuries.

"He has settled in ever so well; it's like he's been here for years, and he suits our style. I've been very encouraged by his performances."

What do you think? Post your comments below.

READ MORE

Football headlines
More Blades
More Owls
More Spireites
More Rovers
More Reds
More Millers
More Ice Hockey
More rugby league
More rugby union
More boxing
Sports columnists
All sport categories