19 February 2022
By Hob Nob Anyone?
Reading FC have confirmed the departure of manager Veljko Paunovic, shortly after he guided his team to a vital 3-2 away victory at Preston this afternoon. Pauno signs off from a mixed time at Reading with four points from six games that gives his side hope in the battle against relegation. The club made it clear the decision was made before today's win by issuing an announcement shortly after full time that also confirmed Paul Ince is taking over on a temporary basis.
History will see Pauno as a manager that made a hugely positive start as manager after arriving in the summer of 2020. His side raced to the top of the Championship table as they started the season with 7 wins from 8 games. Over the season the Royals faded before eventually finishing just outside the play-offs. The 2021/2022 season has seen Reading plagued with difficulties including a transfer embargo, a points deduction and major injury issues. It would have been a difficult time for any manager but Paunovic lost the faith of the supporters after a run of 8 straight defeats as players began to return from injury.
Paul Ince feels a strange appointment and arrives with his son at the club on loan. Ince was last in management eight years ago at Blackpool after spending less than a year at the club, winning just 12 games out of 42. His time at Blackpool also included a five match stadium ban due to violent conduct. Academy Manager, and Reading legend Michael Gilkes will assist Ince and the duo will lead the first time while the club search for a permanent manager.
The official club statement wishes Paunovic well thanks him for his "commitment and dedication to our club... also his professionalism throughout what have been undeniably challenging circumstances this season.". That statement feels genuine enough with Paunovic clearly a very decent guy who struggled this season. It was a shame it turned personal towards the end and Paunovic also deserves further credit for leading Reading to a win in his final match when he must have known he was set to depart. Hopefully all Reading fans wish his very well with his next managerial appointment.
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