Nigel Pearson explains why Tomas Kalas missed Reading v Bristol City

Nigel Pearson has clarified why Tomas Kalas was missing from Bristol City’s matchday squad against Reading.

Kalas wasn’t named in the 18-man squad to face the Royals at the Madejski Stadium, prompting questions. Cameron Pring, who assisted City’s goal against Millwall returned to the team after missing the midweek win over West Bromwich Albion.

The Czech Republic international recently returned from a long lay-off, which was first a groin injury and later a knee problem. He underwent an operation for a problem on his groin in March, which ruled him out for the remainder of last season.

Speaking to BBC Radio Bristol before kick-off, Pearson said: “It’s a precaution he’s got a bit of a tight calf this morning and he’s been out for a while so it’s more to do with trying to protect that.

“We’ll have a look at it over the next couple of days and hopefully it’s just a minor setback.”

Fortunately for City, they do not have a midweek match which allows for a longer recovery should Kalas have suffered a setback. Their next match is against Swansea City, which is on Saturday, October 29, in what has been a busy month.

Timm Klose has been preferred to Tomas Kalas in the centre of the three-man defence since the Switzerland international made his own return from injury.

Kal Naismith could also make a return next week, having suffered a calf problem that has ruled him out for the last five matches. The 30-year-old had been ever present before getting injured against Coventry City.