FORMER MANCHESTER UNITED defender Jaap Stam has landed his first managerial role as he takes the reins of Championship side Reading.
The 43-year-old has previously held roles as assistant manager with FC Zwolle and Ajax but now finds himself in the hot seat after signing a two-year contract at the Madejski Stadium.
The Dutchman becomes the Royals’ first non-British manager as he succeeds Brian McDermott, whose second spell at the club lasted just six months.
“Reading are very ambitious like I am and they want to get back to the Premier League,” Stam said. “There’s a big challenge ahead.”
Stam, who won the treble with United as well as enjoying stints with Lazio, AC Milan and Ajax, spoke to fellow countrymen Ronald Koeman and Guus Hiddink about managing in England.
“As a player I wanted to win as many trophies as I could and as a manager I have the same ambition,” he continued.
“I am going to do that with Reading and I am very happy to do that with this club. Hopefully we can get to the Premier League with Reading.”
Stam won 67 caps for Netherlands during a 15-year playing career before going into coaching. He spent the last three years in charge of Ajax’s reserve side.
Reading, who are captained by Paul McShane and also have Stephen Quinn in their ranks, sacked McDermott at the end of last season after a 17th place finish.
The42 is on Snapchat! Tap the button below on your phone to add!
