Robson looks to Reading for return

Bryan Robson will have talks with Reading tomorrow about a return to management to replace Alan Pardew after an absence of two seasons.

The former Manchester United and England captain is returning from television duties in the Far East to meet the Royals as part of their seven-man shortlist for the post.

Robson has had to fight a whispering campaign against him since he left Middlesbrough and is determined to take a job to prove that he still has ability.

Robson has been overlooked for several jobs because of rumours about socialising during his time in charge at The Riverside - a reputation he is battling to disprove. Robson has been working with Manchester United during his exile from the game, and Sir Alex Ferguson is among his supporters when he goes for jobs.

Reading are interested in meeting Robson along with Rotherham's Ronnie Moore and Oldham's Iain Dowie. The other candidates are Tony Adams, Trevor Francis, Steve Cotterill and their caretaker manager, Kevin Dillon. Robson is also on the shortlist at Stockport County, where there are around 10 possible successors for Carlton Palmer. But he is keen to speak to Reading first.

Reading's director of football, Nicky Hammond, said the club will name their new manager this week. Dillon will be in charge at Norwich tonight, but his chances of staying in the post are slim after three defeats in the last four league games.