The Royals have confirmed plans for a tribute to the 96 victims of the disaster just hours after the club’s owner instead called for Margaret Thatcher’s passing to be recognised

Reading have announced plans for a minute’s silence prior to Saturday’s game against Liverpool to mark the 24th anniversary of the Hillsborough disaster.

96 Liverpool supporters died as a result of crushing during the Reds’ FA Cup semi-final meeting with Nottingham Forest in Sheffield in April 1989 – events which it transpired late last year were the subject of a widespread cover-up.

And, despite Royals chairman John Madejski earlier suggesting that a minute’s silence should in fact be held to mark the passing of former prime minister Margaret Thatcher, the Berkshire club have revealed that plans were put into place last week to pay tribute to those who died at Hillsborough.

A statement on the club’s official website read: “Supporters of Reading Football Club and Liverpool Football Club will hold a minute’s silence before Saturday’s fixture at Madejski Stadium as a mark of respect for the anniversary of the Hillsborough disaster.

“With the game falling two days before the 24th anniversary of the tragedy, plans began last week for a fitting tribute to the 96 supporters who lost their lives.

“The Royals contacted the Premier League earlier today and they of course agreed it was absolutely correct to pay respect on such an occasion.”