Reading FC have triggered an extension clause in Jeriel Dorsett’s contract to keep him at the club.
The 20-year-old defender will be with the Royals for at least one more season after the club opted to extend his contract.
With several senior players out of contract at the end of this month and with the club under a transfer embargo, first-team opportunities could be on the horizon for Dorsett.
Dorsett is yet to make a Championship appearance for Reading but has made one appearance in the EFL Cup and one appearance in the FA Cup for the club.
As part of his development in first-team football, Dorsett impressed during his loan spell at League Two Rochdale last season.
He played 45 times in all competitions for the Dale including 37 matches in the league in an 18th placed finish.
His imposing performances in League Two throughout the 2021/22 campaign saw him named as Rochdale’s Young Player of the Season.
Having returned to Reading, Dorsett is keen to make an impression this season for the Royals to try and win his spot in Paul Ince’s team.
He said: “It’s nice to be back, it’s been a while since I’ve been here.
“I had a good summer, a little rest period for me and now it’s back to it.
“Getting back to fitness and looking forward to getting the season started.
“Coming back here I feel a lot more confident in my ability and I’m ready to prove my worth.
“I can’t wait to start working with Noel (Hunt). He’s a great man, a great guy.
“I’ve had a few conversations with him and we’re getting along really well.
“I’m looking forward to working alongside him, doing what he wants me to do and trying to push on into the first-team.
“Rochdale was a great experience. I’m really happy to have played some men’s football and get some games under my belt.
“Playing senior football week in, week out, it does a lot for you.
“It gives you experience and you figure out what to do at certain times and you adapt to the game quicker.
“I want to push through the team, earn a spot and get in the manager’s good books and make sure he notices me every week.”