Former Reading youngsters Nelson Abbey and Dom Ballard have been recalled by Olympiacos and Southampton respectively from their EFL loan deals.

Abbey, a Reading Academy graduate who became popular last season before his move to Greece in January, made one EFL Cup cameo for Swansea City before being recalled by the European giants last week.

Born and raised locally, the central defender has been spotted back at the Select Car Leasing Stadium often to watch his boyhood club as game time was limited in South Wales.

Meanwhile, Ballard spent time on loan in Berkshire last season but a season-ending injury limited his impact to five goals in 12 appearances between August and November.

(Image: George Tewkesbury)

The 19-year-old joined Blackpool over the summer but netted once in 22 appearances before being recalled by the relegation-threated Saints.

Reports suggest that 21-year-old Abbey will be sent on another loan deal in the second half of the season, but more gametime is needed to continue developing his career.

It remains to be seen what Southampton, now under a new manager, decide to do with England Under-20s star Ballard.

Deadline Day for the Premier League, EFL and Scottish clubs is on Monday, February 3 at 11pm.