Former Reading defender John O'Shea is back at the club as he has been announced as coach this morning

The Irish Independent announced this morning that the 38-year-old, who was released by Reading in May, was in line to accept a post as Reading coach.

Now, the club have confirmed that this is the case and manager Jose Gomes is delighted to welcome O'Shea back to the club.

He said: “John is an intelligent, modest, positive, highly-respected individual who enjoyed a quite remarkable playing career. He competed at the very highest level and remained a model professional throughout - and he set a perfect example for our young players to follow last season. I am excited to work alongside him again, this time as a fellow coach and I’m delighted he has agreed to join us.”

CEO Nigel Howe added: “As a player, John O’Shea won everything. Now, I am delighted that he begins a new career on the other side of the white line at Reading Football Club.

“John is a man who commands so much respect within the world of football and I am sure our players will benefit hugely from the knowledge he has acquired and can now share as a first team coach.”