There are some exceptionally talented managers in the Sky Bet Championship, some of which enjoyed magnificent playing careers before taking the step into coaching and then management.  

Jaap Stam is one man who enjoyed a magnificent playing career, which saw him win numerous titles around Europe, including in England, where he won a host of trophies at Manchester United.

The Dutchman is now manager at Reading, where he is looking to pass on his footballing knowledge to the Royals and guide them back to the Premier League.

But who of Stam’s current squad could make the step into management?

We take a look…

Sam Rourke

Paul McShane.

The centre-back is a massive presence at the heart of the Reading defence and him being in the dressing room is invaluable for the Royals.

This is what could make him such a good manager, his experience and leadership qualities make him the standout pick from the Reading team.

Chris Gallagher

Paul McShane.

The tough Irishman has played for several clubs in the top two tiers and started off at Manchester United, so he will have picked up a lot along the way.

The different managers he's played for contrast in styles and personalities too, so he has to have learned a lot.

As well as that, he's a strong figure and clearly has the respect of his teammates given he's the captain at Reading.

Adam Simeoni

Dave Edwards.

The midfielder has an incredible footballing brain, something that is essential if a player is to make the transition to manager.

Vastly experienced at club and international level, Edwards has a lot to offer the future of the game, and I can certainly see him heading into management once his playing days are up.

George Dagless

Paul McShane.

The defender is a great presence for Reading at the back and will be confident in helping his side up the table in the coming weeks.

He's got all the attributes to be a manager and it wouldn't surprise me to see him get into such a role once he stops playing.