Former West Brom striker Andy Carroll has taken aim at former boss Steve Bruce ahead of a meeting with Reading.

33-year-old Carroll spent the second half of last season under Manchester United legend Bruce at the Hawthorns, scoring three goals in 15 appearances.

Experienced manager Bruce was sacked by the Baggies this week following a run of just one win in 13 Championship matches this campaign.

Youth coach Richard Beale is to take charge against the Royals at the SCL Stadium while the search for a permanent manager continues.

Speaking to the media ahead of the match, veteran forward Carroll wishes he had a chance to play against the Midlands team under his former boss.

"It’s always sad to see people get the sack," he started. "Especially when we were guaranteed three points at the weekend. It is a shame but that’s football.

"You don’t get the results, it’s a business at the end of the day. That’s why you have to keep the lads together and work hard as a manager and get the lads working hard for you. Everyone is enjoying themselves."

Reading Chronicle:

A popular figure during his spell with the Black Country club, the Geordie admitted he was surprised to see the Premier League regulars in the bottom three.

"I’m surprised," he said. "They’ve got a great squad and a great team. It’s surprising to see them down there but it is the way football is. If they win the next three or four games they’re right back up there."