Reading has been compelled to relocate their final pre-season friendly against Charlton Athletic to The Valley due to concerns about the condition of the club’s newly laid pitch.
The recent hot and dry weather has hindered the growth of the grass at the Select Car Leasing Stadium, making the playing surface unfit for use. Consequently, Saturday’s match will now take place behind closed doors at Charlton’s home ground.
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“This is not a decision anyone at the club wished to make, but it is the right one,” said Reading co-chief executive Joe Jacobson in a statement to the club’s website.
“We have made significant investments to ensure the team has the best possible playing surface for the upcoming season. Unfortunately, the recent hot and dry spell has slowed down the growth of the new pitch. After consulting with experts, we believe that taking this precaution now will give us the best chance of having the pitch ready for the start of the League One campaign.”
Reading will kick off their League One season at home against Luton Town on August 15.