Reading FC chairman Rob Couhig has thrown his full support behind new manager Leam Richardson, insisting the club can still push for promotion despite sitting 19th in League One.
The American owner spoke candidly to Royals TV about the direction of Reading FC following Richardson’s appointment, expressing confidence that the former Wigan Athletic boss can rebuild the squad and restore belief at the Select Car Leasing Stadium.
Couhig described the 45-year-old as a trusted figure who fits the club’s long-term plan to return to the Championship.
Leam Richardson coming out to applause from fans today. @ReadingFC pic.twitter.com/8JD3mIQGQb
— fozziebear17 (@Fozziebear17) November 1, 2025
‘He’s Going to Help Us Compete’
Couhig, who co-owns Reading alongside business partner Todd Trosclair, revealed that Richardson was a long-term target, having been on the club’s shortlist as early as last season.
“I’ve got someone in Leam that I can trust,” he said. “He’s going to help us build a squad to compete to get to the Championship. I’m not discounting it for this year — I know people think I’m crazy.”
The Reading chairman added that he had monitored Richardson’s career closely since his promotion-winning spell at Wigan Athletic, praising his leadership and work ethic.
“I watched him get that team promoted, and we’ve kept in contact. When Joe Jacobson and I discussed possible options last year, Leam was always one of the names on the list,” he explained.
Couhig also reflected on the decision to replace former manager Noel Hunt, admitting that the club needed a “fresh, tough look” and a clear identity both on and off the pitch.
Confidence Amid Criticism
The Reading owner addressed criticism directed at the club’s ownership in recent months, particularly over recruitment and spending.
“The local BBC guys started it by echoing the words of the former owner’s people by saying ‘Rob didn’t have the money or was chipping away’. It’s just stupid,” Couhig said.
“When people go on social media rants about the club spending money, ask them — what player didn’t we get? How much should we have paid? It’s easier to rant and rave about things you don’t know about.”
Despite fan frustration, Couhig maintains that stability and a clear vision will be key to turning results around. “Bringing in a new coaching staff with a new attitude is a long-term improvement,” he added, emphasising that the new leadership team will instil a stronger mentality and accountability across the squad.
Working to make the club better on this Beautiful Sunday afternoon to improve all aspects of the club. Enjoyed opportunities to answer questions directly. While progress always takes longer than we want, genuinely excited by the progress Joe, Noel, and the boys are making. URRZZZ pic.twitter.com/HQSm62pzms
— Rob Couhig (@RCouhig) August 10, 2025
Building for the Future
With Reading FC enduring a challenging start to life under Richardson, Couhig remains convinced that the club’s project is moving in the right direction. He admitted that the transition since taking control had been complicated, but believes the right structure is now in place.
“It was a relief to get the club after fighting for it for a year and a half. We inherited good people, which made it hard to make changes, but now we have a group with a real drive to succeed.”
The new manager faces an immediate test as Reading prepare for a crucial run of fixtures ahead of the festive period.
However, with Couhig’s public backing and a renewed sense of determination behind the scenes, the club’s focus is firmly on climbing the League One table and reigniting their push for promotion.
