“Humongous” - Exclusive: David Prutton makes Reading FC takeover claim after update | OneFootball

David Prutton revealed his delight after Rob Couhig finalised a deal to buy Reading FC.

David Prutton revealed his delight that Rob Couhig has finalised an agreement to buy Reading.

The struggles of the League One club have been well-documented over the past few years under Dai Yongge, with issues ranging from points deductions and abandoned games to failing to pay the players’ wages on time.

Therefore, the fans have been desperate for change, with protests taking place regularly. But, much to their frustration, any takeover bids kept stalling, which left liquidation as a real possibility.

Rob Couhig agrees Reading FC deal

Yet, to the relief of all connected to the Royals, that changed last week, as it was announced that former Wycombe owner Couhig had reached a deal to buy the club, as well as the training ground and the stadium.

That put an end to Yongge’s time at the club, and it offers hope for a much brighter future for the Berkshire outfit.

On the pitch, Noel Hunt’s side defied the odds to push for a play-off place this season, although they did fall short as Leyton Orient secured the final spot in the top six in the third tier.

David Prutton optimistic about Reading FC’s future following Rob Couhig arrival

Even though they missed out on the play-offs, the only priority for Reading fans was ensuring Yongge left the club.

And, when speaking to FLW exclusively about Couhig’s takeover, Sky Sports pundit Prutton didn’t play down how important this was, as he predicted some normality for the club moving forward after years of torment: “Absolutely humongous.

“It was disappointing they didn’t make the play-offs, but that’s a soft landing attached to the takeover, because it needed to be done. It was a club on its knees, the supporters have done so much.

“I sincerely wish Rob all the best, because there’s a manager there that’s well-liked, there’s a team that did its utmost despite everything going on off the pitch, and it just needs to be a nice clean slate for everyone involved, and a potential attempt at promotion, with eyes on the top six at least, next season.

“A nice, relaxing summer followed by a busy transfer window, getting the right players at the right level to help Reading progress.”

Reading have solid foundations to build on under new regime

As mentioned, the off-field issues didn’t become a major distraction on the pitch. In fact, they arguably galvanised the players, staff and fans, which has allowed Reading to overachieve this season.

There are a lot of young, talented players in the group, who have shown they are capable of playing in League One.

So, the base is there for the new ownership to build on, even if they will need to strengthen the squad in certain areas.