Reading co-chairman Sir John Madejski has expressed his excitement at the appointment of Steve Clarke as the club's new manager.

Former West Bromwich Albion boss Clarke joined the Royals on Tuesday, 24 hours after the sacking of Nigel Adkins.

With Reading sitting in 16th place in the Championship table, Madejski is hopeful that the Scot can turn their fortunes around.

"It has been a difficult period for all concerned, but now we can look forwards," he told the club's official website. "Nigel Adkins worked tirelessly to achieve success, sadly it did not work out for him but we wish him, his family and staff well for the future. Now we look forward to a new era under Steve's stewardship and I for one am excited about this new beginning."

Clarke takes charge of the side for the first time on Saturday when they host Watford in the league.