English football fans are always eager to see who makes the starting XI.
The upcoming League 1 clash between Reading and Northampton Town is set for 31.01.2026 at 14:00. Here you’ll find everything about confirmed lineups, tactical approaches, and recent performances leading into one of the most anticipated fixtures in England.
Pre-Match Overview
Both clubs come into this League 1 encounter with contrasting form and ambitions.
Reading, currently sitting 13 in the standings, will look to secure valuable home points, while Northampton Town, positioned 21, aim to continue their climb up the League 1 table.
Key match info:
- Country: England
- Date: 31.01.2026
- Kickoff: 14:00
- Favorite: Northampton Town
This fixture has a rich history — the sides last met on 21.10.2025, finishing Reading 1-0 Northampton Town.
Reading Starting XI and Tactical Notes
The Reading squad has been dominant at home throughout the League 1 2026 campaign.
Fans searching for the Reading lineup today or Reading starting XI can find it on this page.
The manager’s choices this week will likely focus on:
- Maintaining defensive stability after recent fixtures
- Enhancing midfield control and quick transitions
- Maximizing forward efficiency in the final third
Recent Reading home performances:
Date Event Score 27.01.2026 Reading vs Exeter City 2 - 2 24.01.2026 Reading vs Barnsley 2 - 2 17.01.2026 Leyton Orient vs Reading 3 - 1
Northampton Town Confirmed Lineup
The visitors Northampton Town have been unpredictable this season but remain dangerous against top sides.
Their confirmed lineup for today’s League 1 game will soon be announced on this page.
Performance overview:
- League standing: 21
- Recent head-to-head record: Reading 1-0 Northampton Town
- Wins this season over Reading: 1
Recent away match stats for Northampton Town:
Date Event Score 27.01.2026 Rotherham United vs Northampton Town 2 - 1 24.01.2026 Blackpool vs Northampton Town 2 - 0 17.01.2026 Northampton Town vs Wycombe Wanderers 1 - 2
Prediction and Final Word
As of 28.01.2026, odds point to Northampton Town as the likely winner, but English football rarely follows the script. Weather, intensity, and tactical precision will all influence the result.
The confirmed Reading and Northampton Town lineups for the League 1 2026 season will be updated here once available — stay tuned for the latest lineup news, formations, and player performances.

