READING have appointed Leam Richardson as their new first-team manager after sacking Noel Hunt.
The former Premier League star was axed after less than a year in charge at the Select Car Leasing Stadium.
Hunt, 42, spent five years in his playing career at the Royals but left the club 19th in League One following the 1-1 draw with Doncaster.
Hunt was a fan favourite as a player under Steve Coppell, scoring 39 goals in 162 games for the club.
Richardson, 45, arrives at the club having signed a contract that will run until the summer of 2027.
The former Rotherham boss has also managed the likes of Accrington Stanley and Wigan Athletic.
During his time at the Latics he became a hero as he stepped in and saved the life of Charlie Wyke in November 2021.
The striker collapsed during a training session after suffering a cardiac arrest.
After he was discharged from hospital he revealed that it was the “actions” of providing CPR by Richardson and club doctor Jonathan Tobin that saved his life.
Reading chairman Rob Couhig has spoken about Richardson’s arrival at the club.
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He said: “I have admired Leam for some time.
“He is a coach and leader who embodies exactly the qualities we want at Reading Football Club – hard work, diligence, organisation and an absolute commitment to improving players.
“He achieved promotion from League One in extremely difficult circumstances and proved he can build success.
“He is humble, he is driven, and he builds strong, honest cultures – something I know Royals fans value and respect.
“Leam knows this division, he knows what a winning dressing room looks like and he understands the standards required to get there.
“He is hungry, ambitious and determined to move this football club forward. We are delighted to welcome him to Reading.”
Richardson will take charge in the Reading dugout for the first time on November 1.
The Royals face Carlisle in the first round of the FA Cup.
