Boss Steve Coppell says that our former midfielder Steve Sidwell will get a good reception from the supporters when he returns with Aston Villa this weekend.

Sidwell will be part of the Villains' squad for this friendly encounter, kick off 3pm, and Coppell believes our fans will acknowledge his contribution in a Reading shirt.

The 25-year-old joined the Royals in January 2003, and played 182(+5) games for the Club, scoring 30 goals. He left for Chelsea, and has subsequently moved to Villa Park.

Coppell said, "I think he'll get a good reception. I think the Reading fans appreciate his honesty on the pitch and his honesty off the pitch as well.

"Obviously he left. but he said to us right from early on that he was wanting to try and play elsewhere, and his performances were never affected.

"It would have been understandable if on occasion he had ducked out of a few things, but it's not in his nature. He's a wholehearted player and I'm sure we'll see that Saturday."

Ticket for Saturday's game are on general sale, just £10 for adults and £6 concessions. They are available by telephone on 0844 249 1871, online or in person.

Both the west and east stand ticket offices will be open on Saturday for walk-up sales, and there is no increase in price if you wish to buy on the day.