SPECULATION over Phil Parkinson’s future looks set to linger into next week with Reading unlikely to make an appointment before weekend.

The Wanderers boss remains odds-on favourite to succeed Paul Clement and is believed to be the first choice for a few influential figures at the Madejski Stadium.

Caretaker boss Scott Marshall expects to be in charge of this weekend’s game against Rotherham United – and it is looking increasingly likely the Royals will hold an interview process to examine potential candidates.

No official approach has been made, which has left Parkinson free to concentrate on preparing his side for the visit of Leeds United this weekend.

Reading midfielder Dave Edwards admits would love to see Reading test Wanderers’ mettle with an approach for the club legend.

"Phil Parkinson is a huge fans' favourite here," said Edwards on the Totally Football League Show podcast. “Every time he comes to Reading with Bolton he gets a rapturous reception.

"He's doing wonderful things at Bolton when you think of the things he's going through.

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"He would be a shrewd appointment by the club. I'm sure there are plenty of people who see the club as a good one to come and manage.”

"It's a club that's really underperforming - and that's the club from top to bottom.

"We've definitely got a squad which should be fighting in the top half of the Championship.

"If we can get a man in who can change the momentum around and get us winning games then I'm sure we can really take off."