Reading boss Brian McDermott expects winger Jimmy Kebe to stay

Kebe has made over 100 appearances for Reading

Reading manager Brian McDermott says he is confident winger Jimmy Kebe will stay at the club despite speculation linking him with a January move away.

Kebe, 27, is out of contract in the summer and has so far refused to commit himself to a new deal with the Royals.

However, despite the uncertainty surrounding the Mali star, Royals boss Brian McDermott believes he will stay.

"I've spoken to Jimmy, he has told me he loves Reading and wants to stay," McDermott told BBC Radio Berkshire.

"I know Jimmy well and I'm sure he would come to see me if that has changed."

Kebe made his return from injury in the 2-2 draw with Derby on Tuesday having missed the last month with a knee injury.

McDermott was pleased with his contribution and says there is no deadline for Kebe to sign the extension.

"He hasn't played for a month and I thought he did well when he came in on Tuesday," he added.

Kebe signed from Lens in July 2008 and was a key member of the side that made it to the Championship play-off final last season.

He has made eight appearances this season and over 100 in total for the Royals.

Meanwhile, former Reading striker Shane Long is confident his old club will do well this season.

Long, who left for West Brom in August, was at the Madejski Stadium on Tuesday night to watch the 2-2 draw against Derby and also saw his replacement Adam Le Fondre score twice.

"Le Fondre looked lively up front and the squad is very strong this season," Long told BBC Radio Berkshire's Weekend Kick Off show.

"I think if they get a run of games like they have been doing and get some wins under their belt like last season then it could happen for them. It is promising times for Reading, I think."

You can hear the whole interview with Shane Long on Weekend Kick Off on Friday from 1730 BST on BBC Radio Berkshire.