Reading have sacked first-team manager Paul Ince after the club fell into the Championship relegation zone. Ince first took charge of the club in February 2022 on an interim basis before being appointed as permanent manager in May. However, after an eight-game winless run including five losses, the 55-year-old coach has had his contract terminated after the club’s 2-1 defeat to Preston on Monday. Under-21 manager and former Reading striker Noel Hunt has been installed as interim manager until the end of the 2022-23 season. Reading’s Head of Football Operations, Mark Bowen said: “I would like to thank Paul and Alex for their efforts throughout what has admittedly been a frustrating and exceptionally challenging season so far. We would like to wish them well in their future endeavours. The board will work diligently to identify the manager who is the best fit for this football club going forward – a candidate capable of driving it towards a healthier, brighter future. However, for the next five games, our only focus is on doing everything we can to survive this season.” Assistant manager Alex Rae has also departed the club. Reading sit 22nd in the Championship, one point from safety. The club were deducted six points following a breach of the English Football League’s financial rules earlier in April. Reading have lost 20 games this season and have the third-worst defensive record in the league having conceded 62 goals this season. Reading are next in action against Premier League-bound Burnley on Saturday. The unexpected return of Paul Ince was not enough to save his job, and now the club must look to the future. The decision to sack Ince was likely influenced by the club’s poor form and the need for a change in direction. With Noel Hunt at the helm, Reading will be looking to turn their season around and avoid relegation. The club’s fans will be hoping for a positive response from the team in their next match against Burnley. The future of Reading is uncertain, but one thing is clear: the club needs to improve quickly if they want to stay in the Championship. The board will be working hard to find a new manager who can lead the club to success, but for now, Noel Hunt is in charge and will be looking to make a positive impact.