Reading captain Jem Karacan has expressed his thanks to Nigel Adkins after the latter was relieved of his duties as manager.

Following Saturday's 6-1 defeat at Birmingham City, Adkins was sacked yesterday evening by the Royals, after 21 months in charge.

Karacan, who has not played for over a year because of cruciate knee ligament injury, revealed that he hopes to be back at some point this month, as he thanked Adkins.

Speaking of Adkins and his backroom team, Karacan told the club website: "They couldn't have worked any harder and earned massive respect from everyone here.

"Now, we as players, have to take responsibility to go out there and perform - starting on Saturday.

"On a more personal note, a big thanks to Nigel, who gave me the armband this season and I'll always be grateful for that. I have been more frustrated than anyone to not be able to be out on the pitch on a Saturday."

Former West Bromwich Albion boss Steve Clarke is expected to be named as Adkins's successor.