Reading Ownership Approval Rating - May 2017

A lot has changed since the last time we asked for your opinion of the Thai owners of Reading. Back in July 2016, you gave them an average rating of 2.50 out of 5 amid the uncertainty on and off the pitch. But as they look set to step aside to allow new owners to take the club forwards, how do you feel now?

You certainly can't complain about what's happened on the pitch in terms of results. Two lower-table finishes sparked fears of another disappointing season, but the seemingly inspired appointment of Jaap Stam has the Royals back in familiar territory, fighting at the top end of the Championship. What's more, he's largely been allowed to invest money in his squad, with Tiago Ilori's signing reportedly breaking our club transfer record. The splashy loan signings of Matej Vydra and Ola John have gone, replaced by a more prudent, long-term vision - back to the 'young and hungry' mantra that served Reading so well in their most successful era ten years ago. And the owners have allowed Stam to carry out his vision, after potentially saving the club from meltdown just three years ago.

That said, there are still concerns behind the scenes. Confusion over who truly holds the power amongst the three shareholders, with conflicting reports about individuals coming to the fore at different stages of their tenure. Uncertainty about how much of the club they will still own should the takeover bid from Dai Yongge and Dai Xiu Li succeed. And of course the plans for Royal Elm Park, which they are fully behind and look set to begin very soon - it's not completely profiteering, but the cynical view passed on by one of our writers a year ago looks to have had some salient points.

In conclusion - great guns on the pitch, less certain off it. Let us know how you're feeling, and vote in the poll below.