Leyton Orient boss Richie Wellens has surfaced as the new favourite to become manager for Championship side Reading, according to The Reading Chronicle.
After being crowned champions of League Two and winning EFL League Two Manager of the Season, the 43-year-old is the latest favourite, replacing current Ireland assistant John O’Shea.
Who is Richie Wellens?
With over 600 appearances as a midfielder, the former Manchester United man has had successful spells since becoming a manager in 2017. After an up-and-down time at Oldham, Wellens made a name for himself during his time at Swindon.
Joining mid-season in 2018, Wellens lead Swindon to a League Two title the following year during the COVID-19 pandemic.
He would also go on to win the EFL Trophy with Salford in 2020, and after a few disappointing seasons with his former club and Doncaster, he found success again with the O’s.
What Has He Achieved With Leyton Orient?
Joining Orient towards the end of last season, Wellens took the Reds from 20th to 13th place during the final 11 games of the campaign. He continued that successful run into the new year with nine wins and one draw in the first 10 games of the season.
Their successful start catapulted Orient to an early promotion in April, where Wellens has had a 54% winning percentage during his time in charge.
Is He Ready For The Step Up?
In his five years of management, Wellens has led teams to successful seasons and multiple trophies, but it has all come in League Two. The Englishmen have had three chances at managing in League One, however, all three spells have been his worst statistically.
Writer’s View
I’m not surprised at all to see Wellens being linked to a job that could potentially see him in the Championship, as he’s two League Two titles in three full seasons of management in that division is extremely impressive.
However, his record outside of the fourth tier in English football is worrying. While a case could be made for Oldham, Swindon and Doncaster not being League One quality, with all three teams suffering relegation after his departure, it would be an easier appointment for Reading’s case if any sort of success could have been achieved at that level.