Reading FC's leadership has consistently spoken about promotion, raising expectations among fans. However, the club's performances last season were far from convincing, with a sense of disconnection between the team and supporters. The club's ownership group, led by Rob Couhig, has promised an era of openness, integrity, and honesty, but the team's results have not matched the promise. With the new season underway, Reading FC's expectations and accountability will be put to the test. ## What happened? The club's leadership has been forthright in their ambition, with Couhig stating that "if you don't win, your tenure for us is not going to be for long." John Coleman has also spoken about the importance of promotion, saying that he would not have taken the job if he did not believe it was achievable. ## Why it matters for Reading The club's expectations and accountability will have a significant impact on the team's performance and morale. If the team fails to meet expectations, it could lead to a decline in confidence and a sense of disconnection between the team and supporters. ## What comes next? The new season will be a critical test for Reading FC's leadership and ambition. With the club's expectations and accountability on the line, the team will need to deliver results to meet the promise of the club's leadership. League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 12th in League One, 63 pts, 16W-15D-15L from 46 games, recent form LDLLL. Goals this season: 64 scored, 60 conceded (+4 goal difference). Title race: 40 points behind leaders Lincoln. Next fixture: vs Cambridge United (at home, 2027-02-20).