Reading boss Noel Hunt is looking forward to facing boyhood 'hero' Steve Bruce as Blackpool visit Berkshire on Saturday.
The former Manchester United stalwart has had a highly-successful managerial career, earning four promotions in the last decade and taking charge of giants such as Aston Villa, Newcastle United and Sheffield Wednesday.
Arriving at Blackpool in September after over two years out of management, the former Premier League winner won Manager of the Month in September but the Tangerines head into the game in the bottom half of the table.
From one end of the spectrum, with Bruce in the exclusive group of managers to have taken charge of over 1,000 matches in England, Hunt is preparing for his first home match in permanent charge after signing a two-and-a-half year deal on Friday.
Speaking ahead of the meeting on Saturday, Hunt said: "Being a Man United fan, he was a hero of mine growing up. I know his son quite well, Alex, I played with him so no doubt they will come well equipped.
"We can’t change from being us and what has got us success in the last six weeks and beyond. It’s important that we stick to our structure, the boys are in a good place, and we keep going forward."
Bruce last managed at the SCL Stadium in 2017 when his Aston Villa side lost 2-1 to Jaap Stam's Reading.
While in charge of West Bromwich Albion, the 63-year-old was sacked in the immediate build-up to their trip to Berkshire, which the Baggies won 2-0.
While interim manager in 2023, Hunt drew all three home matches, including against promoted Burnley and Luton Town.
Speaking on the pride of taking charge at the SCL Stadium, Hunt added: "My focus goes onto the team and how we are going to play so I am trying to not get too distracted.
"It will be a great occasion for me and the family- let's hopefully get a win for it."
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