The Telegraph: Chinese boss Dai Yongge will face renewed criticism after Reading pulled out of the Under-21 Cup to cut costs【hongyan】

    The Telegraph reported on September 25 that Reading have pulled out of the Premier League's newly created Under-21 competition in order to cut spending.

    The much-criticised Chinese owner Dai Yongge is set to face renewed criticism after he pulled out of the Nations Cup, a partnership between the club's Under-21 teams, the Premier League and the National League, just days after the collapse of a protracted takeover bid by American businessman Rob Kuhig.

    Reading's academy has produced the likes of Aulis in recent years and the club's Under-21 squad was expected to take part in the competition, which starts next month, but it is understood they have now decided to pull out in a bid to cut costs.

tions League Cup matches are scheduled to be played at the homes of clubs in the fifth tier, so Reading's withdrawal will save money on travel and possibly even hotel accommodation. However, the decision will raise fresh concerns about the future of the club's academy team.

    Reading U21s were initially drawn in Group A with Brighton, Fulham, Southampton, Editholt Town, Maidenhead United, Weldstone and Woking, and their place was taken by Derby County after their exit from the tournament.

    In June, Reading women pulled out of the Championship due to financial problems after sweeping redundancies.

    Reading, who are currently 16th in League One, have been docked a total of 18 points for various violations under Dai.