READING FC winger Garath McCleary hailed Jaap Stam for bringing a 'new lease of life' to the club after he  penned a new three-year contract at Madejski Stadium.

Speculaion at McCleary's future was cast aside yesterday when he pledged his future to the Royals by agreeing the new deal, warding off interest from a host of Premier League and Championship clubs.

Having thrived under Jaap Stam so far this season, McCleary revealed the manager was a huge influence in his decision to stay, and said he is delighted to commit his future to the club.

"I think you can ask any of the boys, we are all thriving under him," said McCleary.

"He has been fantastic since he came in. It's a new lease of life and I'm really happy.

"He's a big factor in why we have been so good this season and I'm just really happy to have committed (to the club)."

The news was immediately welcomed by boss Stam, who added: “I’m very happy that Garath has signed a new deal.

"He has been a very important player for us this season, not only in the goals that he has scored but also in the assists he has provided to others in the squad.

“A lot of clubs nowadays are looking for players with the qualities he has - his pace, his ability on the ball and the threat he poses in and around the opposition penalty box. So it is great news that he has signed this new contract at the club.”

The fleet-footed McCleary endured an injury-plagued season under former managers Steve Clarke and Brian McDermott last year.

But the 29-year-old Jamaica international has been in inspired form for Stam's side since returning to full fitness, and has contributed eight goals in his 25 appearances this season.

McCleary moved to Madejski Stadium in 2012 from Nottingham Forest on a free-transfer following the Reading's promotion to the Premier League.

The Oxford-born winger struggled to find his best form in the top flight, however he did notch four goals during the campaign, including a sensational long-distance strike against fellow strugglers Norwich City.

He endured better spells of form in the Championship, and has scored memorable goals against Burnley, Queens Park Rangers and others.

Perhaps his greatest moment in a Reading shirt came when he steered in a cross at Wembley to level the scoreline against Arsenal during a gripping FA Cup semi-final clash.

McCleary tops Reading's scoring charts this season, and has scored a total of 25 goals in more than 170 appearances for the club.