Despite the continual delays, Steve Coppell is reported to be on the verge of becoming Reading's new manager. However, whilst negotiations are progressing things aren't moving quickly enough for any announcement to be made today.
As a consequence Coppell, should he be appointed, will have just six days to prepare for his first game.
In a brief statement, the official website revealed that there will be no announcement today.
"We are of course aware that Royals fans are eager to find out as much news as possible but there will be no news today regarding the vacant manager's job," explained the club.
This time last week the club promised to have the new manager appointed by Saturday so that he could take charge of our game against Bradford, a match which ended 2-2. However, the interviews took longer than expected so the club were unable to name the new manager.
People then expected the decision to be made yesterday but the announcement was once more put on hold. The Royals should unveil Coppell tomorrow, but judging by the past couple of weeks we won't hold our breath.
Previous manager Alan Pardew was officially told he could join West Ham nineteen days ago now. Indeed, the club were aware that his departure was inevitable a month ago so have had ample time to appoint a successor.
The persistent delays, whilst perhaps necessary, have had a hugely detrimental affect on what was supposed to be a promotion challenge. The Royals have played six league games since Pardew's departure, losing four, drawing one and winning just once.
There are now just twelve days remain until Alan Pardew formally takes charge at Upton Park.