Royal relief as Trap continues to play Long game

GIOVANNI TRAPATTONI’S latest squad has been dominated more by those who were left out than those who were included, and Shane Long knows he is somewhat fortunate to have made the latter group.

He may have played in 18 of Reading’s 20 games so far this season, but 13 of those have been as a sub and three of his five starts have been confined to the Carling Cup.

“I wasn’t sure I was going to be in the squad when he narrowed it down to the 23, especially with the likes of Daryl Murphy not making it,” admitted Long last night. “It’s good for me and I’m delighted to be here.”