Reading spent yesterday clearing the air with the players after the sacking of Brian McDermott.

The Daily Mail says Reading announced yesterday that owner Anton Zingarevich said it was the 'hardest decision of his life' to sack McDermott but that 'he and Brian remain on good terms after meeting in person on Monday.'

Zingarevich and Eamonn Dolan, head of the club's academy who has been brought in as caretaker manager, met with first team players and staff at their Hogwood Park training ground yesterday.

Dolan also held a series of meetings throughout the day ahead of their Premier League match against Manchester United on Saturday, where he is expected to take charge.