Reading FC urged to appoint ex-Chelsea hero - he “wouldn’t take any prisoners” after Noel Hunt sacking | OneFootball

FLW's Reading fan pundit wants to see Damien Duff take the reins

This article is part of Football League World's 'Terrace Talk' series, which provides personal opinions from our FLW Fan Pundits regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more…

Reading have sacked manager Noel Hunt after a poor run of form left the club just two points above the relegation zone.

The 42-year-old’s dismissal follows a 1-1 draw to Doncaster Rovers at the weekend, a result that extended the Royals’ winless run and ultimately forced chairman Rob Couhig’s hand.

Hunt had only been in the role permanently since December 2024, when he replaced Ruben Selles, having previously served as caretaker the season before.

A popular figure from his playing days, Hunt made over 160 appearances for Reading between 2008 and 2013, scoring 39 goals and helping the club to promotion to the Premier League.

His return as manager last year was greeted warmly by fans, and Couhig was quick to acknowledge that affection in his statement announcing the decision.

Hunt departs with just 19 wins from 51 matches in charge, and while his side have remained unbeaten at home this season, inconsistency on the road and a threadbare squad have kept the Royals perilously close to the drop.

The new owner’s arrival brought optimism to the Select Car Leasing Stadium after the Royals were under existential threat from Dai Yongge’s stewardship, but results have yet to follow.

Reading FC told ex-Chelsea and Republic of Ireland star Damien Duff should replace Noel Hunt

With the managerial dugout empty at the Select Car Leasing Stadium, Football League World asked resident Royals expert Johnny Hunt who he'd like to see take over the reins.

“Who I would choose to replace Noel Hunt would be Damien Duff,” Hunt told FLW.

“Did a great job with Shelbourne over here in Ireland last season, didn't go so well this season for him, but I think he's obviously well experienced playing wise at the top level.

“And rather than going for Rob Couhig’s Wycombe connection, obvious safe options like Bloomfield, I just think it would be a good signature manager to have.

“Somebody who is hungry and keen to prove himself, and it would be a good fit with a club like Reading.

“Obviously, he only had been in the League of Ireland, but it would be a step up from there to League One with a club that needs to start progressing and having an identity, and I think Duff would provide that.

“And also, he wouldn't take any prisoners and I think would do a great job for the club.”

Leam Richardson and ex-Wycombe Wanderers men linked to vacant Reading manager job

Duff, 46, left Shelbourne earlier this year after guiding them to their first League of Ireland Premier Division title in 18 years.

His time at Tolka Park transformed the Dublin club’s fortunes, introducing a discipline that made them one of Ireland’s most difficult sides to beat.

Though he has yet to manage in England, Duff’s reputation as a meticulous and demanding coach has grown rapidly.

His playing pedigree - over 100 caps for the Republic of Ireland and two Premier League titles with Chelsea - also lends him an aura that could command respect in a dressing room searching for leadership.

Meanwhile, Leam Richardson has been mooted as the favourite by Pete O’Rourke after his title-winning spell with Wigan Athletic in 2022. His proven track record in League One and ability to steady clubs post-crisis could make him an attractive option for Couhig.

Others linked include Matt Bloomfield and Gareth Ainsworth, both of whom have close ties to the owner from his time at Wycombe Wanderers.

While those appointments would provide continuity in terms of ethos and structure, many Reading supporters are wary of the club becoming too closely aligned with its owner’s former side.

Whoever steps into the dugout next faces a significant challenge in steering Reading away from danger. After years of instability, what the Royals need most is a manager capable of delivering both results and direction.

Whether that’s an experienced EFL figure like Richardson or a bold outside choice such as Duff, Couhig’s next move will shape the trajectory of Reading’s rebuild.