Reading striker Marc McNulty has revealed that both the players and Paul Clement were surprised this morning after the latter's dismissal, reports Wokingham Sport writer Tom Crocker.

The former Real Madrid and Chelsea assistant manager was sacked by the Royals on Thursday morning - with the Berkshire club sitting 21st in the Sky Bet Championship table, outside of the relegation zone only on goal difference.

But after a run of just one defeat in their last five league games, Clement's departure was somewhat surprising to many, including to Royals forward McNulty and Clement himself.

"I think Paul Clement was surprised this morning. The players were surprised too" - McNulty said.

McNulty was brought to the club by Clement in the summer from Coventry City, after scoring 28 goals in 52 games last term in the Sky Blues' promotion season from League One.

With a crunch match against Sheffield United on the horizon, it remains to be seen if the Royals, who have won just two of their last eleven games, will have a manager in place in two days time.

The Verdict

This is a very surprising development.

Reading in between the lines, it seems as if Clement's departure was very unexpected and perhaps there is a lack of clarity at the club.

I hope the Royals board know what they're doing.