Reading expected to name Adkins as boss

The Royals have been searching for a new boss since they sacked Brian McDermott two weeks ago, and former Southampton manager Adkins appears to be the man they have opted for.

The 48-year-old has been out of work since surprisingly losing his job with the Saints in January, with his sacking coming after back-to-back promotions.

Reports have linked him with replacing McDermott over previous days, though, and last night Reading confirmed they would be holding an unscheduled media conference at 9.15am today.

Should Adkins be the man they unveil, Reading will become his third professional club, having started out with Scunthorpe in 2006.

He stepped up to the manager's chair after serving the Iron as physiotherapist for 10 years and twice got them promoted from League One to the Championship.

A number of candidates have been linked with the post - Brighton's Gus Poyet was heavily touted last week - while Eamonn Dolan has been looking after the team on a caretaker basis.

The new manager will inherit a side 19th in the Premier League and seven points shy of safety with eight games left.

Reading travel to Arsenal on Saturday before a home game against Southampton, Adkins' old side, on April 6.

Source: PA

Source: PA