Former Reading favourite Nick Blackman labelled Scotland boss Steve Clarke the 'best I played for.'

Blackman, signed from Sheffield United in 2013, spent three years in Berkshire and played over 100 times.

However, he is best known for his spell working under Clarke in Berkshire.

In a 25-game burst at the start of the 2015/16 campaign, the Barbados international scored 11 goals- half of his entire Royals tally- and earned a £3m move to Derby County.

Struggling in the East Midlands, the 33-year-old has gone on to play in Spain and Israel, as well as on the international stage.

Clarke, a Chelsea legend in his playing days, has led his nation to Euro 2020 and now Euro 2024, the first time the Scots have qualified without the need for a play-off match.

This comes after a spell with Kilmarnock in the Scottish Premiership, having departed Berkshire back in 2015.

Taking to social media, Blackman said: "Best manager I played for hands down."

Former Reading teammates Alex Fernandez and Michael Hector, who played against the Royals for Charlton Athletic last month, agreed.

"Great coach and you had a great season with him," said loanee Fernandez, now playing in his native Spain.

Hector added: "What a man."

Clarke's reign ended in controversy, with talk of Fulham attempting to lure the boss away to Craven Cottage after having the club third in the Championship.