Steve Coppell's desire to take the Royals straight back up played a part in his decision to stay, according to Director Of Football Nick Hammond.

After relegation to the Championship, Steve considered his future as manager at Madejski Stadium.

Once the dust had settled, Coppell decided to remain in Berkshire, and Nick says the boss is determined to get into the Premier League again.

Nick told Reading World, "Going down has been a major disappointment, make no mistake about that.

"Being at the coalface, the football people really feel it and Steve more so than anyone. That was a major part of his thought process, and he wants to bounce back into the Premier League. He's very, very focused.

"He needs a break, I've spoken to him while he's been away, he's played a bit of golf but his mind is already on pre-season and I am getting the detail of that arranged with the staff back here.

"Hopefully he will come back refreshed and ready to go."