AFC Wimbledon Academy manager Michael Hamilton has written a heartfelt message after new Reading first team coach James Oliver-Pearce left the Dons for a "new challenge" in Berkshire.

Spending a decade with the Wombles, Oliver-Pearce worked his way up through the Academy structure to working with the first team last season, partly under new Royals Head of Football Operations Mark Bowen.

READ MORE: Reading FC backroom shake-up as two new first team coaches arrive

Now tasked with helping the club navigate tough financial restrictions and remain in the Championship, he will join up with Paul Ince and Alex Rae for pre-season training this week.

Speaking to the AFC Wimbledon website, Mr Hamilton said about his impact on youth development: "From an academy perspective, it’s hard to articulate the impact James has had since he walked through the door.

"He played a significant role in the individual development of a lot of players that graduated from the academy."

However it is his words regarding his time with the first team which will be most relevant to Royals fans.

"Over the last few seasons, we’ve seen a lot of talented British coaches with very deep developmental backgrounds make the transition into the senior game – James is the latest one," he boldly stated. "

"There is no doubt in my mind that he will go on and establish himself as one of the best young coaches in the country, and his career over the next 10 years or so will be very interesting to watch. On behalf of everyone from the academy, it’s not just good luck that I want to say, but more of a thank you.”

Oliver-Pearce is not the only new recruit on the coaching staff, with goalkeeping coach Tony Warner leaving League One Bristol Rovers to move to RG2.