Reading FC manager Paunovic 'expected' to stay at club until end of season

Much of the conversation around Reading in the wake of the disastrous last seven days has revolved around the future of manager Veljko Paunovic.

Many fans felt the FA Cup exit to Kidderminster Harriers would see Paunovic depart before public opinion seemed to reach the almost unanimous view that he needs to leave after Tuesday’s 7-0 defeat to Fulham.

But sources have explained to the Chronicle that not only is Paunovic set to lead his team up to Middlesbrough on Saturday, the expectation is that he will remain in charge for the rest of the season before leaving this summer. 

Paunovic remonstrates with the referees at half-time against Fulham. Image by: JasonPIX

Some inside Reading do feel that it’s time for a change, but others are of the opinion that Paunovic can’t be properly judged due to the ongoing injury crisis and EFL restrictions.

While Paunovic wasn’t seen at Reading’s Bearwood training base on Wednesday with the entire team given a day off, he was back with his side when they returned to prepare for the trip north this weekend.

Much has been made of Reading’s difficult financial situation and multiple sources have confirmed that the restrictions imposed by the EFL due to the Royals breaching profit and sustainability rules has had an effect on the decision to stick with Paunovic.

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It is believed however, that regardless of which division Reading find themselves in at the end of the season, they will be on the look-out for a new manager with one source even claiming that there is “no chance” Paunovic gets offered a new contract.

With just two wins in their last 12 Championship matches, Reading sit one solitary place and three points clear of the relegation zone ahead of Saturday’s match with high-flying Boro who have emerged victorious in five of their last six league fixtures.