Ranty McRantfaceSchmeichel the dogWimb
McDermott wanted Conor Washington that window, did the ground work and then the owners pulled the plug to go for the cheap option in Rakels.
https://www.getreading.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/reading-fc-transfers-mcdermott-talks-10760832
Whether Washington's career would have panned out better who knows? His only other signings were Kermorgant and Evans, neither of which turned out bad.
Tiger said in a meeting with the fans in the summer of 2016 that a lot of the players 'didn't respect' McDermott and that was one reason they decided to make a change.
Says it all about the quality of characters in the dressing room at the time tbf
Simply shocking if true. Would never be in this absolute mess if we had kept faith with McD during and after the last prem campaign. I am even beginning to warm to Adkins given what he achieved with such a limited budget and interference from higher up. It was when Clarke arrived that the wheels began to come off, including so many behind the scenes changes. We have struggled as a team and a club ever since. And yes, I am ignoring the Stam year when we got to the PO final which was depressingly boring and completely turgid throughout even when we were winning.......
Whilst I am disappointed they went for the cheap option, I was baffled why we were going for a player who was in the same form as Samuel at the time. He was on a hot streak and doing well for the Gills at the same standard as Washington. Hindsight shows that neither have worked out well, so whether it was shocking decision by the owners I strongly doubt it would have made any difference.
As for the lack of respect..I heard a similar thing about his time at Leeds as well. We all love McDermott and what he did but let's be honest. He did wonders with his mates, who knew and respected him. When they go or play at the highest level you need a lot more than a bloody arm around you from your pal to succeed and Tabb diagrams of how to be the perfect gentleman.
He's a top bloke but I don't think he's cut out to manage at this level in the modern game.
just think that's horseshit.