Reading have announced the return of Chelsea defender Matt Miazga to the club on a season-long loan following his successful stint last season.

The 24-year-old completed the paperwork on Monday afternoon to become Jose Gomes' fourth signing of the summer, and he will now spend the duration of the 2019/20 season at the Madejski Stadium.

Miazga was an integral figure during the Royals' successful survival fight last term, as he made 18 appearances after joining the club in January and formed a strong defensive partnership with Liam Moore.

The USA international won wide plaudits for his commanding presence alongside Moore, as his defensive intelligence and awareness saw him become a firm fans' favourite among Royals supporters.

Miazga was one of a number of loan signings who helped the club in the second half of last season, and Reading are reportedly keen on re-signing another of them as they are in talks over a deal for Liverpool midfielder Ovie Ejaria.

The verdict

What a massive boost this is for the Royals. Miazga's return means he will be able to reprise his formidable defensive partnership with Moore over the course of a full season.

This is a statement of Reading's intent with the new season fast approaching, and it is indicative of the club's newfound ambition that a player of Miazga's quality wanted to return to the Madejski Stadium.

The fact Reading have also signed former Birmingham City captain Michael Morrison as a defensive option means the club are now well-stocked in this department as they strive to improve their squad depth.

I think Reading fans can now start feeling optimistic for the season ahead, and the next step is to get a deal over the line for Miazga's fellow former loanee Ejaria.