The 27-year-old winger was eager to pen a new deal in the summer but was prevented from doing so due to Royals’ takeover problems.

At the time the club had adopted a self-imposed transfer embargo and was not in a position to offer new contracts until new owners were found.

However, Royals are now in the hands of a new Thai consortium and McCleary, whose deal now runs until 2017, declared: “I’m over the moon about it and it’s something I have wanted to do for a while.

“Everyone has been brilliant since I’ve been here – the staff, the players and the fans. It’s a family run club and my family were a big part in my decision. My partner is really settled here as are my children.”

He added: “We wanted it back in August, but due to the sitaution with the club at that time it couldn’t happen - so I’m happy it’s now done and dusted.”

McCleary is yet to feature for the Royals this season as he recovers from an operation to repair a fractured vertebrae during the summer.

The former Nottingham Forest star picked up the injury last season but played through the pain barrier during the latter weeks of the season.

“My injury was unfortunate, doing it back in March and playing on,” he admitted. “But it’s something that we have strengthened. It was hard. There were a few times where I couldn’t sprint, and times where I needed to come off in games. But now I’m back running on grass and not feeling any pain which is great.”

Royals’ team-mates Jem Karacan and Danny Williams are also nearing fitness as they recover from long-term injuries which also required surgery.

“I know people may have seen a picture of Danny Williams out there on the pitch too, but I didn’t want my photo taken,” stressed McCleary.

“A few of the boys are on their way back and hopefully it won’t be too long. I will aim to come back stronger and help the team, but I need to be patient. There is still a little way to go”

However, McCleary is clearly chomping at the bit and desperate to help Nigel Adkins’ team push for promotion.

“Having been signed from Bromley to Forest for £25,000 and to go on to play for Reading in the Premier League was an incredible journey,” he added.

“I’m grasping it with both hands - I’ve always thought it’s hard to get somewhere you want to be, but it’s even harder to stay there.

“That’s something I want to do - the fans here have shown me a lot of respect and hopefully I can repay their faith with my performances.”