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Reading academy manager Eamonn Dolan dies aged 48 after cancer fight

Reading have announced the death of their academy manager Eamonn Dolan at the age of 48 after a battle with cancer.

Dolan's work at the academy spanned more than a decade, with players he brought through including striker Shane Long, now at Southampton, and midfielder Steve Sidwell, who moved from Reading to Chelsea.

The Irishman, who began his playing career at West Ham, also played for Birmingham and Exeter.

He underwent chemotherapy last August following an operation to remove a tumour from his bladder.

In a statement on their official website, Reading said: "It is with the deepest and most profound sadness that Reading Football Club regretfully inform its supporters of the passing of Eamonn Dolan, who tragically lost a brave battle against cancer on Monday evening.

"Our sincere condolences go out to his family and many, many friends. Eamonn was, and will forever remain, one of our own.

"Eamonn led by shining example. And most notably, his love for this club was overwhelming.

"That love was mutual. Everyone who worked with him at Reading respected and admired a man who will be desperately missed by staff, managers, coaches and players both past and present.''

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