Reading FC Shuffle Coaching Staff

Reading Football Club have made an additional two signings today, as Michael Gilkes joins as first team coach and Scott Marshall is named U23 manager.

Royals legend Gilkes - who played in the blue and white hoops for 13 years - makes the step up to Jaap Stam’s coaching staff, having previously been in charge of the U18 side.

Gilkesy received his UEFA Pro Licence earlier this summer, which means he’s qualified to coach at the very highest level.

On his appointment, Ron Gourlay, CEO said:

“Michael has long been a hero at this club and he has certainly proven his coaching credentials by taking a leading role within our esteemed Academy set-up since returning to the club four years ago. The manager wanted to swiftly appoint a new First Team Coach and, in Michael, we feel have the perfect candidate. I’d like to wish him well in his new position.”

And Brian Tevreden, Sporting Director, said:

“Gilkesy is already a well-respected figure around the training ground and amongst our supporters, who still fondly remember the goals he scored as a Reading player! He is an exceptional coach who has been working closely with our young players for some time now and he has all the attributes to become an even better coach working alongside Jaap and his team.”

If you’re not privy to the skillset of Gilkes the player, this video should help.

RAPID.

Also joining the coaching set-up is Scott Marshall, who will guide the Young Royals through the PL2 campaign.

With a long and rich history of football, Marshall has experience coaching in Brentford, Oman, and Norwich. His most recent coaching spell was at Aston Villa, where he was caretaker manager alongside Andy Marshall for The Villains’ 2-1 FA Cup victory over Leicester City in 2015.

Ron Gourlay, CEO, said:

“I am delighted to be able to welcome Scott to Reading Football Club. An experienced coach who has proven pedigree in the development of young players domestically and internationally, I am confident Scott will be an extremely valuable asset to our Category One Academy set-up.”

Marshall’s signing coincides with the departure of long-serving Martin Kuhl, who joined The Royals in 2000 and managing various youth sides over the years.

On his departure, Brian Tevreden said:

“We would all like to thank Martin Kuhl for his hard work and dedication throughout his time at the club. We wish Kuhly the very best of luck in the next step he takes in his coaching career and beyond.”

Everyone at The Tilehurst End would like to place on record their sincere thanks to Martin Kuhl for his years of service to the club we all love, and wish him all the best in his future endeavours.

Meanwhile, a big welcome to Scott Marshall!

Read more here and here.