Reading boss, Jose Gomes certainly gave Royals supporters hope of their side retaining their Championship status with a number of impressive loan signings. 

There were also a number of players that were considered 'deadwood' by the newly appointed boss that were moved on during January's transfer window which will be pleasing to see for the club's supporters.

But it came as a surprise to see Vito Mannone remain at the club, despite his lack of opportunities in the Reading first-team this season.

Mannone was listed as one of the players by the Reading Chronicle that had been transfer listed by Jose Gomes shortly after he arrived at the club.

The former Sunderland and Arsenal shot-stopper had been first-choice goalkeeper with the Royals last season, but after a poor showing on the opening day of this season against Derby, he has seen his game time limited.

Mannone will certainly feel that he has the quality to be playing regular Championship football, and has every right to feel hard done by this season.

He'll share most supporters' views that he is a better option to have between the sticks over the likes of Sam Walker and Anssi Jaakkola.

There is no doubting that Emiliano Martinez is the best goalkeeper currently at the club, and it seems difficult for any of the current alternatives to break into the starting XI ahead of the on-loan Arsenal man.

Mannone will surely be tempted to have his contract mutually tempted as he isn't even being considered for the under 23's team this season, which all but ends his chances of returning the first-team fold anytime soon.

Ultimately, he's been hard done by, and would be an excellent addition to have in a number of Championship squads, and I would be stunned to see Mannone remain with Reading beyond the end of this season.