Reading favourite Amadou Mbengue has signed a new contract until the end of the season, with a view to extending beyond that.

The 20-year-old has played 14 times since arriving in September from Metz in France.

A versatile youngster who can play anywhere along the back, his raw speed and headstrong attitude has earned him many a supporter in RG2.

Speaking on his new deal, boss Paul Ince said: "Amadou arrived here as a young man, coming to another country without speaking much of the language, and yet he fit in immediately. As a player, he is versatile, he’s got pace, tenacity and a hunger to be the best he can be. As a person, he’s hard not to love; he’s always got a smile on his face, he enjoys coming into training and the culture we are creating here. I’m delighted he has agreed to stay with us.”

Head of Football Operations, Mark Bowen, said: "I’m delighted we have been able to sign him up and, in the discussions I have personally had with the player over the last few weeks, he has shown he is ready to commit the next few years of his career to this club. I am sure he will have an important part to play in the second half of this season and I’m very pleased to get the deal over the line.”