393 matches, 43 goals, one Simod Cup medal. 

That is just one aspect of the legacy of the name Gilkes at Reading Football Club.

However, in the modern-day, it goes far beyond that.

Club legend Michael Gilkes is the main man at the club's prestigious youth system, stepping in seamlessly in the footsteps of Lee Herron and the iconic Eamonn Dolan.

But coming up alongside him is another Gilkes. Harrison Gilkes.

The 29-year-old had a solid non-league playing career, but from the age of just 25 has been working towards his badges and developing as a young coach.

With Reading since 2019, he has now worked his way up to being assistant manager of the Under-18s, working alongside playing favourite Mikele Leigertwood.

Facing Forest Green Rovers in tonight's FA Youth Cup second-round tie, Harrison will follow in his father's footsteps of standing in the dugout at the SCL Stadium, something his father did as a coach under Paul Ince.

"It’s exciting for all the staff and players," Harrison told the media, while sat alongside his dad. "We came through a tough test against Oxford City, but we’ve had a good couple of weeks of training so we’re looking forward to it, hopefully, we can put a good performance in and get a good result.

"The third-round draw has just been done but we have spoken to the players about taking the next game as it comes. If we can get through, then we will look at the third round and hopefully progress.

"We are lucky in that we have a manager who gives opportunities to young players. We’ve seen Taylan Harris make his debut from the Under-18s which is great. We had Ashqar Ahmed on the bench against Arsenal Under-21s and there have been a couple playing for the Under-21s. They’re a good batch, but we don’t want to put too much pressure on them. They still have a lot of development to go, but hopefully, they can utilise the experiences they have had and show it.

"We try and approach it as just another game, but automatically when you find out you’re playing under the lights at the stadium then there is the buzz. It is important that the players try and keep a clear head and do what they have been doing in the normal games."

Working at the club your father is idolised at could be tough for many, especially while he still holds such a prominent position in the day-to-day running.

But not for Harrison, who is thriving alongside Gilkes Sr, Noel Hunt and Leigertwood.

"It is business as usual. I really enjoy it, to work alongside someone I deeply admire and respect. I learn a lot from him every day. I’m lucky to have the opportunity."