Coppell considers Reading future

Reading manager Steve Coppell refused to be drawn on whether he would still be in charge come the start of next season after his side were relegated yesterday.

Despite demolishing the Rams 4-0 at Pride Park the Royals will still be joining them, along with Birmingham, in the Championship next season following Fulham's 1-0 win at Portsmouth.

The Cottagers' superior goal difference was all that separated the two sides after 38 matches, with both finishing on 36 points.

And Coppell, Royals boss since 2003, said he would now sit down and consider his future at the club.

"I have got to look at things," he added. "It's too close (after the game) now. I have a huge affection for this club and I want to do what I think is right for this club."

The defeat ensured the Rams became only the second team in the history of English football to win just once in an entire league season - the first was Loughborough College 108 seasons ago.

They can also add the unwanted record of lowest goals tally to earliest relegation and smallest points total in Premier League history.