Karacan hopes to start against Arsenal in FA Cup semi-final

Reading captain Jem Karacan has revealed he is hoping to start against Arsenal in the FA Cup semi-final tie at Wembley.

Karacan made his first senior start for 570 days on the weekend against Blackburn Rovers.

The Turkish international had been out with a cruciate ligament injury but has recovered and is nearing full match fitness.

Karacan played for 75 minutes in the goalless draw on the weekend against Blackburn.

“All I could do on Saturday was work 100 per cent and try and do all I could to fit into the team,” Karacan was quoted as saying on Getreading.

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“I obviously want to play at Wembley, everybody does. It’s the best stadium in the world and I’ve been fortunate enough to play there once.

“So hopefully I’ve put a little bit of doubt into the gaffer’s head.”

Karacan did however, state that he would understand if he was not given the start and would support the managers decision whatever happens.

“But whoever he goes for it’s been an unbelievable run in the cup. Whoever plays we’ll all be behind each other and trying to get the result,” he added.

Karacan has one goal in seven appearances in all competitions for Reading this season.

The semi-final between Arsenal and Reading will be played on Saturday 18 April at Wembley stadium.