Next Reading manager: Steve Bruce is early favourite to replace sacked Paul Clement
Championship outfit called time on the former Derby boss' time at the Madejski Stadium as they sit in the relegation zone
STEVE BRUCE has emerged as the early favourite to become the new Reading manager.
The Royals sacked Paul Clement after their dismal Championship form has left them in the relegation zone.
The ex-Aston Villa boss is the bookies front-runner at 3/1 following a flurry of bets following Clement's departure.
Bookmakers have seen 54 per cent of all bets backing Bruce to take over at the Madejski Stadium.
The 57-year-old has previously been linked with the job, when Clement was under pressure back in October.
Meanwhile Bolton boss Phil Parkinson is second favourite at 5/1.
Betvictor: Next Reading manager
Steve Bruce - 5/1
Phil Parkinson - 8/1
Graeme Murty - 8/1
Mark Warburton - 8/1
Steve Coppell - 12/1
Slavisa Jokanovic - 14/1
Brian McDermott - 14/1
David Moyes - 14/1
Nigel Pearson - 16/1
Roy Keane - 16/1
spokesperson George Elek said: “Aston Villa's form he turned for the better since Bruce left the club, so the former Hull boss will be desperate to get back into a job to prove that he is still a top manager at Championship level.
“He would at least provide a safe pair of hands, which is just was Reading need to ensure safety.”
Bruce has been out of work since leaving Villa in August - he was relieved of his duties in the midlands after a nine-game run without a win.
