Reading defender Chris Gunter has revealed that he feels that the Royals squad 'let down' former boss Jaap Stam following the Dutchman's sacking from the club.

The former Manchester United defender had taken the Berkshire-based side to the brink of the Premier League last season with a play-off final appearance, but less than twelve months later Stam was cast aside as Reading plummeted towards the relegation spots.

Speaking whilst on international duty, Gunter revealed his disappointment in both himself and his teammates.

"Jaap deserved a lot better," he told BBC Radio Wales via BBC Sport. "It's a real blow that a change has been made.

"Jaap Stam is the best manager I've worked for. We let him down badly as a squad this season."

The Verdict

Gunter's admission will come as little consolation to Stam who will be fully aware that his squad let him down, with the Dutchman now in the unemployment line having failed to have been repaid the faith he showed in his Reading stars.

The Royals are at serious risk of falling into the third tier this semester with just three points separating them from the drop and although Stam will take most of the flak, he is only partly to blame for the club's demise.

He added quality to the squad over the summer and didn't lose many and Gunter is more than correct to challenge the efforts of the squad.

Reading fans, do you agree with Gunter?