Exclusive: Leam Richardson in contention to be next Reading manager
Wigan Athletic and Rotherham United’s former boss Leam Richardson is in the frame for the vacant manager’s job at Reading, sources have told Football Insider.
The Berkshire side sacked Noel Hunt on Sunday (26 October) following a 1-1 draw with Doncaster Rovers.
Reading sit 19th in League One after 14 games of the season, and are just two points clear of the relegation zone.
Sources say that Richardson is one of the names in contention to become the new boss at the Select Car Leasing Stadium.
Leam Richardson has previous League One success
Following their collapse into administration, Richardson took over the manager’s role at Wigan, leading them through an incredibly tough patch as a club.
The Latics were relegated from the Championship in 2019-20, and almost suffered the same fate in League One the following season under the guidance of the 45-year-old, but he managed to keep them up.
Then in 2021-22, Richardson led Wigan to the League One title and was named the manager of the season during the process.
The Englishman was sacked during the club’s first season back in the Championship, and most recently had a spell in charge of Rotherham in the second tier.
If they do decide to appoint Richardson, Reading will hope that he can channel his previous successes in League One to boost the Royals up the division.
Reading underperforming in League One
Last season, Reading were in the play-off picture until the final day, losing out to Leyton Orient in the race for the final spot.
The Royals were expected to mount another challenge for the top six this term, but have performed below expectations with Hunt at the helm.
Reading don’t play again in the league until November 6, when they face second-place Stevenage, so will hope to have a new manager in charge by then.