Graeme Murty's testimonial plans have been thrown into chaos following Reading’s relegation, writes NICK IVE.

I understand a title-chasing European club were lined up to play at Madejski Stadium, but that is now in doubt      following Royals’ drop into the Championship.

Murty’s testimonial had been pencilled in for Wednesday August 6.

But that is just three days before the start of the Football League season, which kicks off a week earlier than the Premier League.

As we revealed months ago, the Reading skipper originally hoped to play Celtic, but that proposal was scrapped on the advice of Thames Valley Police.

Murty, who has been at the club for 10 years, said: “The game was organised, but getting relegated has totally ruined it. It depended on us staying in the Premier League and having a proper pre-season. I’ll have to wait and see, but we’ll hold off for now.”

Meanwhile fellow loyal servant Ron Grant is set to stay on. The kitman and Reading fan, who has just recovered from hip surgery, joked: “I hope to be back next season, but with less money in the pot I might have to retire or do it for nothing.”

Reading are expected to make plenty of changes. Nicky Shorey could be first out of the door. He is wanted by Newcastle, West Ham and Villa, who are also pondering a move for Kevin Doyle.