Reading close to sacking manager Veljko Paunovic

Reading boss Veljko Paunovic is close to the sack following a run of eight straight defeats. 

The Royals are in relegation danger following a stretch of just one win in 13 league matches and the Serb is now in danger of losing his job. 

Reading fans stormed onto the pitch in protest after the 3-2 defeat to Coventry, which leaves them just two points above the Championship drop zone. 

There are also said to be a core of players who are disillusioned with the direction of the team under Paunovic. And Sportsmail understands coach’s job is in serious jeopardy. 

Reading's last victory came back on November 27, 12 games ago. And their recent run of defeats began with a humiliating third round FA Cup exit at the hands of non-league Kidderminster. 

Supporters attempted to confront Paunovic in the technical area following Saturday’s defeat to Coventry and called for his sacking, chanting ‘we want Pauno out.’ 

Asked about his future following the game, he said: ‘There is no need to answer that. If something has to happen, it'll happen. 

‘We need to stay away from negativity and whatever is happening around. It is my responsibility and I feel very sorry at some point I let certain things happen and provoked so much frustration and negativity around us and myself, but I understand that.’ 

Responding to suggestions that Reading’s players want a change of manager, he added: ‘I'm not commenting on rumours. I'm pretty clear, as long as I am here, I am here. I also saw how the team played today and I saw senior players playing well.’ 

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