Reading vs Chelsea U21 - EFL Trophy

The EFL Trophy returns to the home ground on October 13, 2026, where Reading and Chelsea U21 will lock horns in a contest that could shape their respective campaigns. Mason Mount has been outstanding for Man Utd in pre-season but he could still face fierce competition for a place in Michael Carrick's side next season.

Both Reading and Chelsea U21 will be eager to build momentum when they meet in EFL Trophy. The hosts will be looking to find their rhythm and put a run of results together. The visitors will back themselves to cause problems and will not make the trip expecting an easy afternoon. Their 3-0 win over Nice takes them up to second spot in the fledgling Ligue 1 table.

How the two sides approach the contest strategically will be key. Reading will want to control proceedings in front of their own supporters, while Chelsea U21 will back themselves to cause problems on the break. Amad won possession in the PSG half before laying the ball off for Bryan Mbeumo to score.

Star players on both sides will be eager to make their mark, and the individual duels across the pitch could go a long way to deciding the outcome. How each side deals with the other's danger men — and who takes their chances when they come — will be central to the outcome. Perhaps the finances in the game will be reined in moving forward and some kind of normality will return to the professional game.

The market has yet to form a strong view, and the contest looks genuinely difficult to call. Neither side holds a clear edge, and a 1-1 draw would be a fitting reflection of the balance between them. The result at the home ground could resonate well beyond matchday in the EFL Trophy picture. Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player Liverpool's midfield wasn't great last year but I expect Florian Wirtz to have a better season, 100 per cent.