This article is part of Football League World's 'The Verdict' series, which provides personal opinions from the FLW writers regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more...

Reading are on the hunt for a new manager following the sacking of Jose Gomes after only 10 months in charge at the Madejski Stadium, with the Royals in the relegation zone with almost a quarter of the season gone.

With the shortlist being drawn up an interesting development at the Mad Stad has seen the man tasked with finding a new manager for the Royals, consultant Mark Bowen now being installed as one of the favourites in the betting to be appointed.

So would the former Wales assistant manager be a good appointment at Reading?

We discuss.........

George Brooks

"I'm not sure about this one. Bowen already knows the club very well and will know how to get the best out of the players currently at the club, so that's one reason why he'd be a good appointment.

"He's got plenty of experience in football too, but he doesn't have any experience as a manager, so his appointment would have to be considered a risk for Reading, especially when there are more experienced options available at this time.

"He's got plenty of experience as a coach though, but he'd still need to adapt to the challenges that come with managing in the Championship and the pressure that comes with that."

Ned Holmes

“This looks like quite a suspect move to me and one that Reading may live to regret.

“Yes, Bowen knows the club and the players already and has a strong relationship with the owners but other than a few caretaker roles he is lacking in full-time management experience.

“You also feel that this may take away from the boost having a fresh start so often provides clubs with new managers.

“In addition, the Royals will then have to replace him and bring someone else in as sporting director.

“I can’t understand this move and I think it could be one that sets them back.”

Josh Cole

“This could turn out be an incredibly shrewd appointment by Reading as Bowen is certainly no stranger to the Madejski Stadium.

“Having joined the club as a consultant earlier this year, the Welshman was recently handed the sporting director role by the Royals.

“Given that he has worked as a coach for the likes of Manchester City and Blackburn Rovers in the past, Bowen could use this experience to help Reading avoid relegation this season.

“Whilst Bowen has never been in the hotseat before, his first-hand knowledge of the Royals’ players could be beneficial as it may allow the club to make a smooth transition following Jose Gomes exit.”

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