Reading have confirmed that former striker Noel Hunt has taken over first-team duties after Paul Ince's sacking.

In charge for over a year, the former England captain oversaw a run of no win in eight and has taken the club into the bottom three with just five matches remaining.

But, who is Hunt?

Arriving in Berkshire back in 2008, the Republic of Ireland forward joined brother Stephen under Steve Coppell.

Hitting the ground running, his debut campaign brought 13 goals- his highest tally for the Royals- as the diminutive forward cemented his place in the squad.

A fan favourite for his tenacity and ability to jump high, despite his stature, he was a key member of Brian McDermott's team which lost the 2011 Championship play-off final before returning and winning the league the following season.

Scoring twice in the Premier League during the relegation campaign, the 40-year-old went on to play for the likes of Leeds United and Ipswich Town before hanging up his boots in 2018.

Taking his coaching badges, the former Ireland international learned his trade at Swindon Town, Doncaster Rovers and Wigan Athletic before making an emotional return to Berkshire last year, taking over as Under-21 manager.

Leading the youngsters to glory in the Berks and Bucks Senior Cup, and steering them through a turbulent time as Category One status was lost, Ince was provided with a constant stream of graduates to supplement his first-team squad.

Now with five matches to save the season and prevent a drop into the third tier for the first time in over 20 years, the supporters will no doubt be behind the club legend.