READING FC have announced that Director of Football Nick Hammond has decided to leave the club and take up an opportunity as Technical Director with Premier League side West Bromwich Albion.

“When any member of staff leaves a football club it is always difficult, but I have worked very closely with Nick Hammond throughout all my time at Reading,” manager Brian McDermott said.

"He was instrumental in the two promotions to the Premier League achieved during his tenure and, in my opinion, he is right up there as one of the very best Directors of Football in the game.

“Nick has done a fantastic job for Reading Football Club, but more importantly he is a top guy – and myself and all the staff here will miss him very much. I would like to personally wish him all the very best in his new venture.”

Chief Executive Nigel Howe will take on the Director of Football responsibilities with the assistance of Head of International Football Development, Brian Tevreden.

In a statement from the club, Reading added: 'We would like to place on permanent record their sincere thanks to Nick for all his hard work and the part he has played in our successes over a number of years at Reading.'