Reading's relegation rivals Cambridge United have sacked manager Mark Bonner after a run of one win in 13 matches.

The U's lost 3-0 to Lincoln City on Tuesday evening and dropped to 18th in League One.

Only surviving relegation on the final day of last season, with current Royals Sam Smith and Harvey Knibbs instrumental in their safety, they continue to battle at the bottom of League One.

First taking over in 2020, Bonner is a boyhood Cambridge fan and was described by owner Paul Barry as "one of the most important people in the history of Cambridge United".

On an emotional statement on the club website, Berry continued: "All of us - owners, board, staff, players and fans - know how lucky we have been to have him and how hard this decision has been.

“Cambridge United has made huge strides on and off the pitch over the last five years and Mark has been instrumental in building our strong foundations for the future, creating special memories and moments for all of us along the way - most notably promotion during lockdown, Newcastle away in the FA Cup and the great escape last season.

“He has done it through his leadership and energy, his talent as a coach, his natural communication and empathy, and his desire to push the club forward on and off the pitch as someone born and brought up in Cambridge, who genuinely cares about our city and its communities.

“But in football, sometimes you do have to make decisions you believe are right for the long-term future of the Club - difficult though they can sometimes be.

“Given our recent performances and results, we all feel - Owners and Board - that this is the right moment to part company with Mark, with huge respect, admiration and acknowledgement for all we have achieved together.

“We will now consider the right appointment for the Club at this stage of our development. In the meantime, Barry Corr, working with Kevin Betsy will have responsibility for the first team squad.”

Beating Reading 1-0 in September, the U's are seven points clear of the Royals.

After two wins in four days, Ruben Selles' side are now only five points adrift of safety.