Reading FC legend and former manager Brian McDermott heaped praise on manager Ruben Selles and his staff for their work during testing times.
McDermott, who had two spells as manager with the Royals, visited Bearwood Park training ground last week.
His most successful spell with Reading came during his first stint where he won the team promotion to the Premier League after winning the Championship in the 2011/12 season.
After being sacked by the club in March 2013, he then returned to the club in December 2015 for a six month spell.
He was most recently sporting director at Scottish side Hibernian before departing his role in the summer.
Taking to LinkedIn to speak about his experience of meeting Selles for the first time, McDermott said: “It was great to catch up with some friends I have known for years and some of the new staff, I didn’t know.
“It is fair to say the club has had a troubled number of years. It was so heartening to see what I experienced.
“The atmosphere around the place was first class. I would like to thank the staff and players who gave me such a lovely welcome. I was blown away by the facilities. The standard around the place and what the game is about, the people.
“Ruben Selles is a real class act. As with all the top managers I have been in the company of, he is a kind, respectful, interesting guy.
“The job him and his staff have done over a period of time, has been phenomenal. No excuses, no moaning and he would have every reason to complain in the last few years.
“I really hope Ruben, the staff and players get a break. The right owner comes into the building. The potential is enormous.
“The football people here are just what the club needs. There is a sense that Reading Football Club supporters have a real love for the manager and players.”
