McDermott has served as Arsenal’s chief international scout, but also had management spells with Reading (twice) and Leeds United. Here are 15 players who played under him as a manager, including a former Hearts legend, former Manchester United and Rangers defenders, a Champions League semi-finalist and an ex-Dundee United player who linked up with him more than once.
5. Shane Long
The Ireland international striker scored 34 goals in 79 games for McDermott at Reading Photo: Alex Livesey
6. Hal Robson-Kanu
The Wales international striker scored 19 goals in more than 100 games under McDermott at Reading Photo: BEN STANSALL
7. Adrian Mariappa
McDermott's record signing. He paid £3.8 million to bring the centre-back to Reading from Watford Photo: Jamie McDonald
8. Ian Harte
The Irish international left-back, who had played in the Champions League semi-final for Leeds, was coming towards the end of his career when he was signed by McDermott for Reading from Carlisle for £1.25 million Photo: Mike Hewitt