McCarthy extends Leeds loan

On-loan Reading goalkeeper Alex McCarthy has extended his loan at Championship rivals Leeds United by another month, with clauses in the deal stating he can be recalled by the Royals at any point during this time.

The former England U21 international has gained many admirers at Elland Road by keeping three clean sheets in six games. He also saved a crucial penalty in their 1-1 draw with Watford last week to help Leeds gain a vital point.

Leeds boss Simon Grayson told the official LUFC site: ‘He has done very well for us in the time he has been here, he’s a fantastic young goalkeeper and we’re grateful to Reading for allowing him to stay on. We have a number of games coming up and by keeping Alex it enables us to have plenty of options in that area.’

Director of Football Nicky Hammond has very similar words of praise for the youngster, who became slightly frustrated at sitting on the bench at the Madejski Stadium after putting in some fine performances for Brian McDermott last season.

Hammond told the official RFC site: ”Alex is an oustanding talent and wants to continue his development by playing regularly at the highest possible level. With Adam Federici in such fine form, this further spell will help Alex greatly and will not weaken our first team.’

The 22-year old will obviously not be eligible for the game against Leeds on Saturday, which will mean that 40 year-old Maik Taylor is likely to deputise in goal.