Reading FC boss pays moving tribute to ‘legendary’ Andy Yiadom

Reading FC manager Leam Richardson has paid an emotional tribute to Ghanaian defender Andy Yiadom, hailing him as a club legend with an enduring legacy at the Select Car Leasing Stadium.

The 34-year-old veteran is set to depart the League One side this summer, bringing the curtain down on a distinguished eight-year career with the Royals.

Yiadom’s departure comes as part of a significant squad overhaul that has seen the exit of three African internationals, including Guinea-Bissau midfielder Mamadi Camara and Zimbabwean prospect Tivonge Rushesha.

Rare Andy Yiadom goal against Hull in 2018 #ReadingFC 🔵⚪️🔵⚪️ pic.twitter.com/ORNMoIgspS

— The Ding Archive (@dingarchive) May 5, 2026

Andy Yiadom included in Reading FC squad clear-out

In an official statement released on Tuesday, 5 May 2026, the club confirmed that the trio will leave Berkshire upon the expiration of their respective contracts this summer.

In a separate, more personal tribute issued later that day, Richardson took the time to specifically recognise the immense contribution of the man who was crowned the club’s 2022 Player of the Season.

“Andy has been outstanding for this football club over a long period of time,” Richardson remarked. “He is someone who embodies everything you look for in a top professional—honest, committed, and a natural leader both on and off the pitch.”

The manager’s only regret

Farewell Andy Yiadom#ReadingFC 🔵⚪️🔵⚪️

2018-2026
253 appearances
4 goals/12 assists
Player of the Season 2021/22 pic.twitter.com/T8H9gVZcUC

— The Ding Archive (@dingarchive) May 5, 2026

The Reading manager expressed his deep regret that the club’s faithful supporters were unable to give Yiadom a proper farewell during Saturday’s final EFL League One fixture away at Blackpool FC.

“It’s a real shame that a small niggle kept him out of the matchday squad on Saturday because he absolutely deserved that final appearance in front of the fans,” Richardson added.

“He leaves with the utmost respect of everyone at the club, and I have no doubt he will be remembered as a player who gave his heart and soul every single day for the Reading badge.”

The versatile right-sided operator joined Reading in 2018 and recently became the 35th player in the club’s history to reach the milestone of 250 appearances—the first player to achieve the feat since Garath McCleary in 2019.

To mark his departure, the club presented the Ghanaian international with a commemorative signed shirt and a watch from club partner Citizen during a farewell meeting with teammates and coaching staff at the Bearwood Park training ground.