Reading manager Steve Coppell has signed a new two-year contract at the Madejski Stadium.

The move breaks with Coppell's previous preference of signing one-year rolling contracts with the club.

The 51-year-old has been in charge of the Royals since 2003 and has led the club from the Coca-Cola Championship to their current position of eighth in the Premiership.

"I have always maintained that contracts are not really a big issue for me, but I have to admit that for the club to have such faith in me is very pleasing, and now I want to repay that faith by continuing to do my job to the best of my ability," said Coppell, whose previous deal had been due to expire in the summer

Reading have made a big impression in their first season in the top flight, after winning the Championship with a record points total last year, and are in contention to qualify for Europe.

Coppell, who has previously had four spells as manager of Crystal Palace, took charge at Reading after a stint at Brighton and stabilised the club following the acrimonious departure of Alan Pardew.