New Reading boss Nigel Adkins has revealed he went on study trips across the country and Europe following his dismissal by Southampton.

Adkins was named new Royals manager on Tuesday.

"I went on a goalkeeping course at Warwick University.

"Edwin van der Sar gave a good talk and Eric Steele led it - that was really good.

"I went on another course at (new national training base) St George's Park where they had the guys over from Belgium talking about how their academy system has worked so well, and they have got players in the Premier League.

"I also spent a good time in Germany at Hamburg.

"They were very hospitable.

"You've got (sporting director) Frank Arnesen and (former Chelsea coach) Lee Congleton there - it was fantastic.

"I got full access, I saw all the training, how they operate. That was really good.

"It was just great to see the whole set-up."