Coppell to stay at relegated Reading (SN)

Reading manager Steve Coppell ended speculation over his future on Tuesday by announcing he will stay at the Championship club.

Coppell had been considering his position in the aftermath of Reading's relegation from the Premier League on the last day of the season and was widely expected to quit.

But the reaction of Reading fans who pleaded with Coppell to stay played a key role in persuading him to lead their Championship promotion challenge next season.

“I'm very pleased to be staying. After the end of the season I needed some time to reflect and think about what was the best course of action for both myself and for Reading Football Club,” Coppell told the club's website.

“The reaction of the supporters had a bearing on my decision, as did my relationship with the chairman John Madejski and everyone at the club.

“I'm now looking forward to the new season and the significant challenge of trying to regain our place in the Premier League.”

Coppell has been in charge at Reading for nearly five years and masterminded their first ever promotion to the Premier League in 2006 with a record 106 points.