Reading are exploring a move for Gillingham manager Gareth Ainsworth as they begin the search for a new head coach following Noel Hunt’s dismissal at the Select Car Leasing Stadium.
The Royals confirmed Hunt’s departure less than 24 hours after Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Doncaster Rovers, with new owner Rob Couhig now seeking a proven leader to stabilise a faltering League One campaign.
Noel Hunt’s 10-Month Reign Terminated
Noel Hunt’s 10-month reign as Reading manager ended on Sunday after a run of poor results left the club hovering above the relegation zone. Despite early optimism, just 3 wins from 14 league games forced Couhig’s hand, with the American owner citing the need for “ruthless accountability” in his official statement.
According to Bet365:
* Gareth Ainsworth
* Luke Williams
* Damien Duff
* Des Buckingham
* Matt BloomfieldI would like Duff. He won the league in Ireland, is a free agent, and plays great attacking football.#readingfc pic.twitter.com/dX6KWjhAkP
— Mark Talks Sport (@MarkTalksSport) October 26, 2025
Hunt departs having overseen 51 matches in charge, winning 19 and drawing 16, but his side’s failure to convert performances into results has proved decisive. The club have now changed permanent managers ten times since 2015, highlighting a period of prolonged instability in Berkshire.
Attention immediately turned to potential successors, with reports suggesting Couhig will revisit past links with Gareth Ainsworth. The 52-year-old was unbeaten with Gillingham in League Two up to his last game before recent heart surgery and previously achieved promotion to the Championship with Wycombe Wanderers under the Couhig family’s ownership. His experience, loyalty, and pragmatic style make him an obvious fit for the club’s current predicament.
Ainsworth’s managerial journey has included brief spells at Queens Park Rangers and Shrewsbury Town, but his stock remains high after transforming Gillingham’s form since taking over in March. While his football is often labelled direct, his leadership qualities and track record of overachievement in testing circumstances have made him an early favourite for the vacancy.
Sending our best wishes to Gareth Ainsworth.
The Gillingham manager is to take a short break away from the club, after issues were flagged with his heart during his LMA health checks. pic.twitter.com/Zdrvyj6SeI
— Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) September 28, 2025
Ainsworth Could Build a Lasting Legacy
Reading’s situation demands an immediate reset. After a turbulent period under previous owner Dai Yongge, the club is under fresh leadership and aiming to rebuild its identity both on and off the pitch. Couhig, who also previously owned Wycombe, is expected to favour a manager he already knows and trusts.
Ainsworth fits that profile perfectly, though the shortlist also features alternative options. Former Swansea and Notts County boss Luke Williams is currently unattached and open to offers, but is also in the running for the vacant Peterborough United role.
Ex-Shelbourne manager Damien Duff and former Oxford boss Des Buckingham have been mentioned as potential outside contenders. However, early indicators suggest Reading’s approach will focus closer to home.
Should a deal be struck with Gillingham, Reading would need to negotiate compensation, but Couhig’s admiration for Ainsworth’s methods could accelerate talks. The Royals face a congested fixture list, and with the team 19th in League One, swift action is viewed as essential to steady the season.
For supporters, the hope is that this appointment can finally end a revolving-door cycle that has seen tenures come and go without lasting progress. Ainsworth’s proven ability to build resilient, tight-knit squads could be exactly what Reading require to re-establish themselves as a competitive force in the EFL.
