Reading FC manager Leam Richardson has been identified as a leading candidate to take over as head coach of Blackburn Rovers following the club’s decision to part company with Valérien Ismaël.
Blackburn, currently struggling in the EFL Championship, confirmed on Monday that Ismaël had left the club by mutual consent after a run of poor results left them in the relegation zone. Assistant coach Dean Whitehead also departed, and Damien Johnson has been placed in temporary charge while the search for a permanent successor continues.
According to reports, Richardson, who guided Reading to improved League One form since his appointment in October 2025, is now under serious consideration by Blackburn’s board. It is understood that a compensation package of around £400,000 would be required to secure his services should Blackburn decide to make a formal approach.
Richardson, 43, has managed a number of clubs in the English Football League, most notably leading Wigan Athletic to League One promotion in 2022. He was appointed Reading manager in late October after Noel Hunt’s dismissal earlier in the campaign.
Reading’s form has shown signs of improvement under Richardson this season, with the side climbing the League One table and moving closer to the playoff positions, although they remain outside the top six.
If Richardson were to depart for Ewood Park, it would come amid a turbulent period for Blackburn Rovers, who have already endured multiple managerial changes in the past year.
