Former Southampton boss Nigel Adkins is to take over as manager at struggling Reading, the club has confirmed.

The Royals, who have been searching for a new head coach since they sacked Brian McDermott two weeks ago, have offered Adkins a contract until 2016.

The 48-year-old had been out of work since surprisingly losing his job with the Saints in January, with his sacking coming after back-to-back promotions.

Long-time assistant Andy Crosby will join Adkins at Reading and the pair will be in charge for the first time at Arsenal on Saturday before hosting Southampton.

Reading are currently second bottom of the Premier League, level on points with Queens Park Rangers and seven points adrift of safety from relegation.

Reading owner Anton Zingarevich said the deal with Adkins had been sealed late Monday.

“I am delighted to bring Nigel to our club because he is perfect for us,” the Russian said in a statement.

“He has great respect within the game, his CV speaks for itself and he has many attributes as a manager, he is progressive, he develops players, his teams play attacking, passing football but most of all he knows how to win games at all levels.

“This is an appointment we have made both with the short and long-term in mind and Nigel can take our club forward.

“I know our supporters have been keen to hear news over the past two weeks and I am certain they will join me in saying it was worth the wait.”