Gary Bowyer interested in Reading job

Gary Bowyer has expressed an interest in the managerial vacancy at Reading following Steve Clarke's dismissal.

The 52-year-old was relieved of his duties by the Royals earlier following last night's 1-0 defeat to Queens Park Rangers, which leaves the team with three defeats in their last four league matches.

Bowyer, who was fired by Blackburn Rovers last month, told Sky Sports News: "Of course I'm looking to get back as soon as possible. Football and management has been a huge part of my life, all my life.

"But Reading are a very good football club, it has a lot of history and the job would appeal to a lot of people because of its tradition.

"I've already got managerial experience in the Championship, two-and-a-half years, so if the right opportunity comes along you've got to be putting yourself forward. I've dusted myself down and tried to do some reflecting on what went well for me personally as a manager. Managing is certainly something I want to continue doing."

Reading sit ninth in the Championship table, a point outside the playoff places.