Rodgers' next game in charge will be at Kettering on Saturday

Brendan Rodgers' reign as Reading manager began with a win as the Royals thrashed Didcot Town 5-1 in a pre-season friendly at Loop Meadow.

Gylfi Sigurdsson, Nicholas Bignall scored in the first-half, with James Henry, James Harper and Simon Church scoring after the break.

"I thought our possession and creation of chances was very good," Rodgers told BBC Radio Berkshire.

"There was freedom in the team and fluency after a week, so I'm pleased."

Rodgers added that it was an opportunity for him to try some different combinations and formations.

"We played two different structures in the team. There was the diamond in the first half, where you have to pass the ball and move, and they did that well and created chances.

"The second half was 4-3-3, so there was a bit more space to open it up with different types of players. Maybe there wasn't the same fluidity, but there was plenty of quality and it showed up well."

The months I've had off have given me a bit more bite and hunger Noel Hunt

Striker Noel Hunt was unable to play due to injury, but he said his recovery is proving to be quicker than expected.

"I'm a couple of weeks ahead of schedule, so I'm pretty happy with that," said the former Dundee United man.

"I'm not supposed to be running until this week, but I was running last week in training and the gaffer has been involving me, which has been great. I just can't wait till the start of the season.

"I've certainly had a lot to think about over the last couple of months, I've been out for nearly four months.

"It gave me plenty of time to think about what happened last season and what we've got to do this season."

Hunt added that he is hopeful of being fit enough to go on Reading's pre-season tour of Sweden.

"The months I've had off have given me a bit more bite and hunger, and with the new manager coming in, it gives everyone so much enthusiasm.

"Hopefully Sweden will be good for me. It's good to get away and train and play at some new places - it keeps things fresh."

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version