Reading FC still finds itself in a dire situation as the owner’s disinterest leads to rapid asset stripping and a toxic relationship with supporters. Despite this, there’s a positive narrative unfolding on the pitch. Despite challenges like points deductions and uncertainty over pay, players are rallying under a manager who’s found a formula where Reading are hard to beat.

Resilience in Adversity

This resilience in the face of adversity showcases the best of human spirit. It has fostered a renewed sense of unity among manager, players, and supporters. Despite what once appeared certain relegation, there’s a palpable and collective determination to defy the odds and pull the club away from the brink.

Personally, the potential loss of Reading FC has been deeply felt. It has been a significant part of many of my weekends over the decades. Despite an upturn on the pitch, the club’s instability persists, with ongoing uncertainty over finances and ownership. While supporters rightly express frustration, public humiliation of an apparently erratic owner may not be productive.

The Owner Remains

Whether the fans hate it or really hate it, Dai Yongge remains the owner. So, in my mind focus should be on accountability rather than actions that could further jeopardise the club’s future. Dressing up in masks depicting Yongge as clown is not really a moral high ground, in my opinion.

Despite the challenges, continued solvency offers a glimmer of hope for the club’s survival and Yongge accepting a bid that can rescue the club. It’s worth remembering he holds all the cards. Only he can sell it or put it into administration. The other option is an HMRC winding order and Reading really don’t want a situation where they no longer exist.

Best Options

The best option is he sells to a sensible bidder. However, if, as many Reading fans claim, he likes to cut off his nose to spite his face, is mocking him really a good idea? I’m not sure it is, you know. It feels like a high risk strategy that may damage his narcissistic ego and enhance his desire to get his own back.

Still, on the pitch Reading are fighting hard. That has galvanised me to watch them again. There is something alluring about supporting a cause that is fighting for its existence in the face of bullies consistently laying the boot in.

If Reading do pull through, it will make a great Netflix tearjerker one day.