Reading legend 'still hungry' for football role after Hibernian exit

Reading legend Brian McDermott insists he is 'still hungry' to continue working in football after his recent exit from Hibernian.

The former Arsenal midfielder has held a number of roles in over four decades of working in the sport, including over 15 years in Berkshire with Slough Town and most notably Reading.

Taking over a manager in 2009, McDermott took the Royals to three FA Cup quarter-finals and a Championship title over two stints, following on from roles as a coach and scout.

(Image: PA)

Leaving most recently in 2016, the former Leeds United boss has spent the last 12 months as Director of Football with Scottish Premiership outfit Hibernian. However, his time at Easter Road came to an end last week when the club announced his departure.

Speaking exclusively to the Reading Chronicle about his time in Edinburgh, McDermott commented: "It’s a great club with a great support base and nice people up there. I was up there on my own, so it wasn’t easy for me personally, not being around my family. As a club, they need a bit of success, and they deserve it."

In charge of multiple aspects of the club, including but not limited to the Academy, women's team and recruitment, McDermott took Reading favourites Jordan Obita and Adam Le Fondre to Scotland in his first summer in charge.

Both regulars in what proved a disappointing campaign for Hibs, Obita was named Player of the Season.

"Jordan was terrific, he was Player of the Year," McDermott said. "Alfie [Le Fondre] was really good but unfortunately got injured before Christmas and was out for three months- we missed him. Alfie can always score goals and he can still play again this year with no problem, it would be a good take for someone."

Taking on a new challenge, McDermott had never assumed the role of Director of Football in his long career.

Despite presenting challenges, the former England youth international said: "It’s the first time I’ve ever done it and there’s a lot that goes unnoticed. You’re working with the Academy, the women’s team, the city itself, you’re in a mentor role with the coaches, you’re with the parents.

"It is quite interesting because you don’t get as much chance to go out and watch players. People look at you and say you pick the players and of course, you get a say in it, but a Director of Football doesn’t have the time to go out watching as many games as you would want."

Despite approaching what would be retirement age in the non-sporting world, the legendary figure around these parts is showing no sign of slowing down.

"I’ve never not been in football; I’ve always done stuff," rebuffing any inkling of retirement. "I had a couple of years doing my presentations and enjoyed that, I was on the mentor scheme for the LMA and like speaking to coaches to help someone.

"I’ve never chased anything in my life, so I’ll see what comes up. My daughter said to me the other day ‘Dad, you’ve done so much you don’t need to do anymore.’ I don’t feel like that, I am still hungry to get out and do stuff."