Reading interim boss Noel Hunt has 'appreciated' the support of his former teammates following his appointment.

Still only in charge for a fortnight, Hunt has picked up two points from his three matches against sides in the top six.

Sitting in the bottom three with two matches remaining, both against relegation rivals, over 20,000 have bought tickets for Saturday's clash with Wigan Athletic.

The likes of Simon Church, Jem Karacan and Adam Le Fondre all wished him well upon hearing the news of his arrival.

Reading Chronicle:

40 of Hunt's closest friends and family will be making the trip to the SCL Stadium, including a possible return for brother Stephen.

Both part of Premier League side's in Berkshire, Stephen Hunt is now an agent within the game.

Speaking to the media ahead of the crunch clash, Hunt said: "From what I heard there were quite a few of the boys that were here with us in 2012 that came to the last game, which is lovely to see, and I appreciate it. It’s been an amazing two weeks working with these boys and having the support that we’ve had. With that, Alana has been inundated with ticket requests, I think she’s had to get 40 for family back home coming to the game and my mates back home trying to keep my grounded and making sure I’m okay which is great. I’m very privileged, it is an honour to be here and it’s about us doing the job on Saturday."

When asked specifically about his brother, a former teammate at Reading, Noel did believe that Stephen was set to return to the SCL Stadium this weekend.

"He will probably be there somewhere down the line. I think my dads coming over and my mum is trying to get it on the TV with the link. I hope they have a good day, and we all have a good day. I’ll see them after if I can, but if I don’t then I don’t- I appreciate the support."