The forward's inclusion marks his first appearance of any kind since pre-season and his first competitive outing since April 25.

Patton last featured in a competitive match when he came off the bench for Reading's senior side in their League One fixture against Rotherham United.

Since then, the academy graduate has been forced to watch from the sidelines as he recovers from an injury picked up against Woking in pre-season, making his return against Liverpool a significant milestone in his recovery.

The 20-year-old has previously featured for the Royals' first team and will be hoping to use the match as an opportunity to rebuild fitness and push his way back into contention over the coming months.

Earlier this month he signed a new two-year contract extension that will keep him at the Select Car Leasing Stadium until the summer of 2028.

His comeback is one of the major talking points from the Under-21s' clash with Liverpool, with Reading receiving a timely boost through the return of one of their attacking prospects.

The forward's performances also earned international recognition, making his debut for the Republic of Ireland Under-21s in March.

"We're really pleased to get Sean tied down," Richardson said about Patton's contract extension.

"He's a talented young player with a lot of potential, but just as importantly he's got a great attitude and a real desire to keep improving.

"He contributed to the first team last season and then had an excellent loan spell at Aldershot under John Coleman, which was another really important step in his development and gave him valuable experience of playing regular senior football.

"The injury he picked up in pre-season has been a bump in the road, but his application and attitude throughout his recovery have been excellent.

"The way he's worked to overcome that setback will stand him in good stead as he moves forward.

"There's plenty more to come from Sean. He's hungry to develop, work hard and earn his opportunities, and we're looking forward to seeing him continue that progression."