Despite leaving Hibernian recently, Reading icon Brian McDermott maintains he is’still keen’ to work in football.
The former Arsenal midfielder has held various roles over four decades in sports, including over 15 years with Slough Town and Reading in Berkshire. McDermott became Reading’s manager in 2009, leading the team to three FA Cup quarter-finals and a Championship title across two stints, after serving as a coach and scout.
After leaving in 2016, he spent the last year as Director of Football for Scottish Premiership club Hibernian, but his tenure ended last week. Reflecting on his time at Hibernian, McDermott told the Reading Chronicle, “It’s a great club with great support and nice people. It was hard being away from my family. The club needs and deserves success.”
At Hibernian, McDermott oversaw the Academy, women’s team, and recruitment, bringing Reading favorites Jordan Obita and Adam Le Fondre to the club. Despite a disappointing season for Hibs, Obita was named Player of the Season. McDermott praised Obita, saying, “Jordan was terrific, Player of the Year. Alfie [Le Fondre] was good but got injured before Christmas, missing three months. He can still play and would be a great pick for someone.”
Taking on the Director of Football role for the first time, McDermott noted the challenges, stating, “There’s a lot that goes unnoticed. You’re working with the Academy, women’s team, the city, mentoring coaches, and engaging with parents. You don’t get much chance to scout players, as a Director of Football has limited time for watching games.”
Despite nearing retirement age, McDermott remains active and passionate about football. He remarked, “I’ve never been out of football; I’ve always been involved. I enjoyed giving presentations and mentoring for the LMA. I haven’t chased anything in my life, so I’ll see what comes up. My daughter said, ‘Dad, you’ve done so much, you don’t need to do more.’ But I still feel hungry to get out and do stuff.”
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