STAR Issue Statement On Brian's Sacking

The sacking of Brian McDermott has naturally polarized opinion - on our own website we've got views from two of our writers who take opposite sides on his departure. Now, the official Supporters Trust of Reading have given their views on Friday's news.

STAR is disappointed that Brian McDermott has been sacked as Reading manager after only 30 games in charge of a squad that was not of his making. We would also like to say we are shocked, but unfortunately we are not. Now looking for their fourth manager in less than two years the owners appear to be chasing success at a desperate pace.

Brian has been a great servant of the club in his two spells. His re-appointment last year suggested a clear strategy was in place for the club to return to methods and a style that had brought success in the past. Together with the recent departures of Nicky Hammond (director of football) and Ian Wood-Smith (director) Brian’s exit indicates firmly that we are moving into a new era for Reading FC.

These kind of managerial changes are no guarantee of success as fans of Leeds, Forest and Charlton would attest. But we will wish the new man, more or less whoever he is, every success with Reading FC.

When even the official fan representatives are taking a cynical view of the ownership situation, you know something's up. Unfortunately as they state, the almost mythical "Reading Way" is something from a bygone era now, and the departures of Nicky Hammond and Brian McDermott signify that it could be long in the rear view mirror.

Whilst it's true that McDermott has been nothing but honourable during his time here, success was obviously not immediate and it's fair to wonder whether he was being given one last audition to show that the "Reading Way" was still viable in an age of ever-spiralling television money and wages.

It's hard to feel confident about the direction of the club at the moment with so many conflicts not only amongst the fanbase, but also deep within the stadium walls. Whilst the fans are divided about the McDermott decision, there's a pretty clear voice regarding the choices and presence of those higher up. Ultimately it's now in the hands of the owners to prove that they are committed to the club in whichever way they choose, and preferably a long-term, sustainable one that brings success.

It's a brave new world for Reading Football Club. Time to hit the restart button again...