Reading have sacked Paul Ince as manager and appointed Noel Hunt as interim manager until end of 2022-23 season.
Ince’s departure comes almost 14 months after he first took charge of Reading initially as interim manager, during which he guided them to safety at end of last season before being appointed permanent manager – amidst under a strict transfer embargo with restrictions.
The Royals nevertheless found themselves top of the Championship in late August and fighting for promotion, until a run of just three wins in 11 matches prior to the World Cup saw them slide down the table.
Their inconsistency continued post World Cup which ultimately cost Ince his job as Reading slipped into the relegation zone on Good Friday, amidst an eight-match winless run and a six-point deduction for breach of budget rules.
Reading’s Head of Football Operations, Mark Bowen issued the following statement to supporters: “I would like to thank Paul and Alex for their efforts throughout what has admittedly been a frustrating and exceptionally challenging season so far.
“We would like to wish them well in their future endeavours.
“The board will work diligently to identify the manager who is the best fit for this football club going forward – a candidate capable of driving it towards a healthier, brighter future.”
Hunt consequently has been appointed as interim manager until end of the season, with the Royals having only five games left to save their Championship status.
The ex Reading player will be supported by Director of Player Development, Eddie Niedzwiecki, who will be Assistant Manager, whilst James Oliver-Pearce will remain as First Team Coach.
Bowen meanwhile iterated that survival is the club’s “only focus” across their five remaining matches, as he added that everyone associated with Reading must lend “their support to Noel, Eddie, James and the first team players as we go into five crucially important games at the end of our 2022-23 campaign.”
Assistant manager, Alex Rae has also been relieved of his duties with immediate effect.
Hunt’s first match in charge sees the Royals host league leaders, Burnley on Saturday 15 April (3pm BST) at Select Car Leasing Stadium.
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