Nuno Espirito Santo could hand four academy players their debuts when Wolves play host to Reading in the Carabao Cup third round on Wednesday.

Wolves have endured a difficult start to the season that has largely been put down to the increased workload of playing in the Europa League, alongside their domestic commitments.

Indeed, Nuno’s side have failed to register a win in the Premier League so far this season, although they will head into Wednesday’s clash with renewed confidence after a stoppage-time strike from Diogo Jota last time out salvaged a 1-1 draw against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.

The congested fixture schedule means Nuno is likely to rotate his squad heavily against Reading and academy quartet Dion Sanderson, Taylor Perry, Meritan Shabani and Bruno Jordao could all make their debuts after being left out of Wolves under-21’s victory over Carlisle in the EFL Trophy on Tuesday.

Ruben Neves, Leander Dendoncker and Elliot Watt could also come into the starting line-up, but one man that definitely won’t feature is Romain Saiss, who was sent-off against Palace.

Reading’s form has taken a nose-dive since they claimed a 4-2 victory over Plymouth in the previous round of the Carabao Cup, as they have lost three straight games and now sit just two points above the Championship relegation zone.

Royals boss Jose Gomes is also likely to make changes to his starting XI for Wednesday’s match, with fringe players Joao Virginia, Charlie Adam and Andy Rinomhota all hoping to feature.

However, defender Michael Morrison will definitely miss out with the ankle injury he picked up in the weekend defeat to Blackburn, while Danny Loader is a major doubt due to illness.

On-loan Chelsea defender Matt Miazga could return, however, after missing Reading’s last three games with a hamstring problem.

Wolves have only lost one of their last six meetings with Reading, a run that includes home and away victories on their way to the Championship title two seasons ago.