News and Views
Appointment Delayed But McDermott Still Favourite
10 December 2015
By Hob Nob Anyone?
Brian McDermott remains favourite to return as the next Reading manager, but has not yet been confirmed as Steve Clarke's replacement. In a repeat of the Steve Clarke to Fulham, will he, won't he situation Reading fans were expecting McDermott to sign yesterday - only to be told last night that no deal had yet been agreed. It was widely reported last month that Clarke had agreed to move to Fulham, only for the press to back-track when it become clear that the two parties were unable to agree terms. It now seems we have a repeat of that and there is no certainty that Brian McDermott will be confirmed as manager.
What is certain is that there have been discussions on-going between Reading FC and their former manager. However, no terms have been agreed and no contracts signed. Officially Reading are still on the hunt for a new manager and McDermott is just one of the contenders. There's been plenty of rumours attempting to explain the delay in McDermott making his return, from money, job security, changes to the back-room staff, and the chance that the club have someone else in serious contention. McDermott was cast aside by the club before, despite taking Reading into the Premier League, and there's no guarantee that wouldn't happen again. McDermott is currently enjoying life as a senior scout at Arsenal and he may be tempted to stay put despite Reading's offers.
The McDermott appointment could still be confirmed over the next few days, but currently Martin Kuhl will remain in charge on a caretaker basis. It now appears likely that the Reading under 21 manager will be in charge as Reading head to Preston North End for their Championship match this weekend. Reading have been poor in recent weeks and Kuhl will have a tough job as he attempts to get some points out of a side that have managed just one win their last eight league matches.
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