Iconic Reading FC manager Brian McDermott believes things are moving in the right direction at the club since the off-field additions this summer.

Speaking alongside legendary manager Steve Coppell at the celebration match, in which McDermott's 2011/12 title-winning side beat Coppell's 2005/06 title-winning side 8-5 at the SCL Stadium.

Stars such as Jobi McAnuff, Graeme Murty and Kevin Doyle were all on display in what was an enjoyable day for all.

 

READ MORE: Reading FC icons react to legends celebration match

 

Coppell, affectionately dubbed 'Sir Steve' by Royal supporters, alluded to the club's tough current situation and that supporters were looking back rather than looking forward, stating on the club's site: "It’s sorry really today, speaking to a lot of people, that they’re talking more about the past rather than looking forward to the future. I hope that changes because it’s a lovely club with some terrific people working here. I hope next year they have something more to cheer about than escaping relegation."

McDermott, a man who had two spells in charge as well as nine years as a scout and coach before taking over in 2009, nodded throughout before giving his assessment on the club ahead of next season.

"I look at what’s going on now," he started on the official club page. "Mark’s [Bowen] coming in- I think that’s good. Brian Carey has come in as head of recruitment, I know him really well, I just get the sense that things are going to start going in the right direction now.

 

Reading Chronicle:

 

"They’ve just got to get the fans back and really communicate with the supporters- both good and bad stuff you need to tell them what’s going on. I get a good feeling about what’s going to happen this summer, it’s going to be a tough season but I can see a lot of success coming this way."