English football club, based in Reading, Berkshire, competing in the Championship
The Carabao Cup second round has been drawn, with Chelsea and Tottenham entering the competition alongside other Premier League clubs not in Europe. The draw is sectional (north and south) and ties will be played the week of 24 August. The nine top-flight teams in Europe this season join in the third round.
Bath has confirmed its final two Premiership home games will be played away from The Rec to accelerate construction of a new stadium, targeted for completion at the start of the 2028/29 season. The move follows planning amendments and ongoing discussions with potential host venues, with the club emphasising the goal of a seamless transition for supporters.
Newport County have added six loanees and a Fulham academy graduate as they strengthen under coach Hayden Mullins. The acquisitions include Tanatswa Nyakuhwa from Cardiff, Jacob from Hull, Adu-Poku, Etete and Nyakuhwa, with Dibley-Dias joining to bolster midfield. The club aims to build a competitive squad after finishing last season safe from relegation.
Crystal Palace beat Fulham 3-2 at Craven Cottage as Ben Chilwell’s stoppage-time volley seals the win after Tyrick Mitchell equalised twice. Fulham had led twice but injuries and a late goal cost Arbeloa’s side; Palace take momentum into the next fixtures.
VAR has admitted an error of judgement in a Manchester derby; Haaland’s winner was allowed to stand amid offside concerns involving Enzo Fernandez. Brentford and Reading also clash over a high boot decision; critics call for clearer officiating as debates intensify around the role of VAR in domestic football.
The Carabao Cup ties see Manchester City and Norwich facing each other after City, the holders, may rest stars. Fleetwood and Liverpool advance to round four, with further ties shaping the fourth-round draw. Everton and Newcastle, Fulham and Palace, and Bournemouth and Villa also progress, setting up a busy slate of matches.
Graham Alexander has returned to Preston North End as manager, replacing sacked Paul Heckingbottom. The former player has led Bradford City to top of League One this season and will look to turn Preston's fortunes around after a poor start to the Championship campaign.