I can't find that criticism, Saxo. Where did you see it?
Mowbray made a general comment about what he expects from players, but it didn't strike me that he was implying Brereton wasn't working hard enough.
My feeling so far is that Brereton's positional sense and reading of the game need developing. I haven't seen signs that he's not trying.
TM often makes the point that players have to FORCE their way into this team because of the pre-existing work-ethic and spirit. Getting past Smallwood is a case in point. We all know that he's the least technically-gifted player in the team, but he has fought off challengers because of his fantastic commitment and work-rate. (I suspect Rothwell may be alongside Evans against Swansea, but Mowbray often surprises).
Players like Brereton and Palmer are not shown special privileges because of their skill-level; they still have to demonstrate the "soldier" qualities TM prizes so highly. I suspect Reed has already passed that test.
Incidentally, the fact that Reed is seen as cover for both central midfield and right-back presumably means that Travis will definitely be going out on loan in January.
I hope he goes to a team that gives him plenty of game-time, because his ability is not being fully utilised, floating - as he is - around the subs' bench and the Under-23s.