Reading head coach Leam Richardson has praised Zimbabwe international Andy Rinomhota following the midfielder’s encouraging performances during the club’s pre-season campaign.

Rinomhota has featured prominently in Reading’s preparations ahead of the new season after returning from an injury-hit 2025/26 campaign.

When asked about the midfielder’s displays, Richardson told The Reading Chronicle that Rinomhota has returned in excellent condition and remains an important leader within the squad.

“Everything that we knew about him when I worked with him previously,” the gaffer said.

“It was really difficult and really frustrating for him, first and foremost, because of last year.

“Obviously, really frustrating for me, because I couldn’t pick him as much as I wanted to, and then he’d kind of come to a point where the season ended. But listen the quality is there and we know how much he loves the club.

“He’s come back in really good shape, really good mood, really good mind.

“We talk about leaders, etc. He’s certainly one of them that we need on the pitch.”