McCarthy wants starting spot

Royals keeper Alex McCarthy has stated his desire to retain the number 1 jersey for the Royals this season, saying that he wants first-team football.

The England U21 international has explained that he would even go out on loan again to achieve his wish, as getting past current first choice keeper Federici, seems unlikely.

McCarthy made his breakthrough into the Reading team last season following an injury to the Australian interntional Fedrici. He only lost one game in the process, putting in man of the match performances against Leeds and Premier League outfit Everton.

McCarthy has been with the England U21s as they exited the Euro U21 Championships in Denmark, with Alex having to settle with a place on the bench.

He has plenty Football League experience having played for Yeovil Town and Brentford, making 44 appearances for the Glovers.