A MAJOR shake-up at Reading FC has continued following the departure of the club's sporting director Gianluca Nani.

Only yesterday the club revealed the sacking of manager Paul Clement and Nigel Howe's second stint as CEO has now seen Nani leave by mutual consent with immediate effect.

Howe was reappointed to the role on Wednesday, following the departure of Ron Gourlay, with Royals just above the relegation zone.

Nani has parted company with Reading after only three months, with the club saying it was the 'right time for Gianluca to pursue new footballing challenges.'

Nani said: “As the club is now moving in a different direction, I believe it is the right time for me to step away from the role.

“Even though it was only for a short time, I really appreciated my time at Reading Football Club.

"I met lovely people and great fans who have supported us through a difficult period.

“I would like to thank the staff at the training ground and stadium as well as the players for their support and their efforts.

"Furthermore, I would like to thank Mr Dai and Ms Dai for the opportunity to work for this great club. All the very best to everyone connected to Reading FC."

The Italian previously had similar roles at Brescia, West Ham and Watford.

He replaced Brian Tevreden, who left the post of technical director to become chief executive at Belgian side KSV Roeselare.