Reading FC appoints Leam Richardson as new manager until 2027

Reading Football Club has appointed Leam Richardson as their new first-team manager on a contract lasting until the summer of 2027, following the departure of Noel Hunt due to a poor start to the League One season. Richardson, 44, brings proven success in League One, having led Wigan Athletic to the League One title and promotion in the 2021-22 season, earning him the EFL League One Manager of the Season award. Despite recent struggles at Rotherham United in the Championship, where he was sacked after a poor run and relegation, Reading's chairman Rob Couhig praised Richardson's qualities, including hard work, diligence, player development, and his ability to build strong, honest team cultures. Richardson will be supported by assistants Danny Schofield and James Beattie as he takes on the task of improving Reading's fortunes, with the club currently positioned 19th in the League One table. Fans have reacted to the appointment with cautious optimism, and bookmakers have set Reading's odds at 14/1 to finish in the top six of League One this season. The club hopes Richardson’s experience and leadership will steer them toward a successful rebuild and better league performance.