Petr Cech suffered a fractured skull in last year's fixture

Jose Mourinho stirred up controversy by criticising player Stephen Hunt and ambulance staff when his goalkeeper was injured in a clash last October.

But Reading captain Graeme Murty is convinced Hunt will be able to cope with his first reunion with Chelsea.

Mr Mourinho was criticised for his "ludicrous" behaviour by Reading's MP.

'Intense scrutiny'

Martin Salter stepped into the debate last year after the Chelsea chairman lashed out at Stephen Hunt and the Berkshire ambulance service after the corresponding fixture last year, which Chelsea won 1-0.

Goalkeeper Petr Cech suffered a fractured skull and his replacement, Carlo Cudicini, also ended up in hospital.

Mr Mourinho said the ambulance took 30 minutes to arrive. Medics said it took seven minutes once one was called.

Mr Murty said: "[Stephen Hunt] knows there is going to be intense scrutiny - but that's fine.

'Pat on the back'

"He will want to look the Chelsea players in the eye and try to match what they do with the ball. That's the only way he can answer them.

"I would never say it to his face, but he deserves a big pat on the back for the way he handled himself after that."

Mr Murty also admitted that the departure of Steve Sidwell to Chelsea after four years has left a "big hole" at the club, but will be welcomed by Reading fans.