Reading appoint Leam Richardson as new head coach | OneFootball

Reading have appointed Leam Richardson as their new manager on a contract running until the summer of 2027, following the dismissal of Noel Hunt after a poor start to the League One campaign, BBC Sport has reported.

The 45-year-old arrives at Reading with a strong reputation for organisation, resilience, and steady leadership. Richardson’s most notable success came with Wigan Athletic, whom he guided to the League One title in 2022 despite the club’s financial turmoil. More recently, he managed Rotherham United, leaving the club earlier this year after their relegation from the Championship.

Reading owner Rob Couhig described Richardson as a coach who “embodies hard work, diligence, organisation and an absolute commitment to improving players,” adding that he is “humble, driven, and builds strong, honest cultures, something Royals fans value and respect.”

Richardson will be joined by Danny Schofield and former Southampton striker James Beattie on his backroom staff as he takes charge of a squad languishing in 19th place after 14 games.

His debut will come in Saturday’s FA Cup first-round clash with Carlisle, before facing a testing run against Stevenage, and former clubs Wigan and Rotherham.

GFN | Finn Entwistle