Veljko Paunovic leaves Reading FC
Paul Ince and Royals legend Michael Gilkes to take interim charge
Last updated 19th Feb 2022
Reading manager Veljko Paunovic has left the club by mutual consent.
The announcement came after the royals beat Preston 3-2 - their first league win since the end of November.
The Serbian was appointed as manager of the Royals in late August 2020 and without fans in the stands to support him or his side, the team sustained a push for promotion for much of his maiden campaign in the Championship - only for the side's play-off hopes to fade in the final few weeks of 2020-21.
During his time in charge he had difficult challenges to overcome with continued pandemic restrictions, strict transfer embargo restrictions and contract limitations, an injury crisis like never before seen at the club, and the challenge of a six-point deduction imposed by the EFL.
Former England captain Paul Ince, father to Royals loanee Tom Ince, has been appointed to take charge of first team affairs on an interim basis alongside Academy Manager Michael Gilkes.
Chief Executive, Mr Dayong Pang, said:
“I met in person with Pauno yesterday morning and I would like to personally thank him for his commitment and dedication to our club during his time as first team manager - but also his professionalism throughout what have been undeniably challenging circumstances this season. Everyone at Reading Football Club would like to wish Veljko the very best of luck in his future career.
“The board and I will now work diligently to identify the right candidate to take this club forward. This work will be done quickly but without undue haste as we fully appreciate the importance of our decision to appoint a new manager at this crucial stage of the campaign.”
The club said it would make no additional comment.