Former Reading FC manager has been appointed Head of Football Operations with the Royals.

Arriving in Berkshire as Sporting Director in 2019, he took charge as manager following the departure of Jose Gomes in 2020 until the summer of 2020.

Most recently manager of AFC Wimbledon in League One, the Welshman's role will "provide strategic leadership across our club's football-driven operations - our coaching values, the club’s player recruitment approach, the use of sports science, analysis and medical data whilst vitally integrating our Category One Academy programme into the club’s first team philosophy."

Chief Executive Dayong Pang said, "We have a very important summer in front of us as we look to plan and prepare for another challenge in the Championship in 2022-23 - so I am delighted that Mark has agreed to join us to help spearhead those preparations as  Head of Football Operations

“Owner Mr Dai and I recognise the considerable impact an appointment of this nature can make within the structure of the club and, as well as boasting a huge level of experience in football at the highest level, in Mark we have appointed an individual who possesses a very clear, strong understanding of Reading Football Club and the specific challenges we face.

“He will provide valuable guidance, a football-driven focus and consistency across our first team and Academy age groups which we are confident will help re-establish an identity across all the pitches at Bearwood Park and develop a footballing culture which will be defined by an aim to ensure our players achieve their maximum potential. I’m very much looking forward to working with Mark once more."