READING FC ace Liam Moore is set to return to first-team football against Nottingham Forest this afternoon (3pm KO).

Royals' star player handed in a transfer request before the start of the season and was left out of the squad which faced Derby County.

However, Reading's Chinese owners refused to sell the 25-year-old to Brighton & Hove Albion at any price.

Moore can now return to action at the City Ground but manager Paul Clement faces a selection headache after Tiago Ilori and Paul McShane displayed an impressive partnership against the Rams.

"He's motivated to be involved immediately," asserted Clement.

"He's been throwing himself into challenges and blocks. He's happy to be part of the group again.

"Tiago Ilori had a strong game against Derby, one of the better games he's had since I have been at the club. He has a lot of great attributes.

"Like all the players he's looking for the consistency in his performances."

When asked if Moore would go straight back into the starting line-up, Clement replied: "He's available and that's something I have to consider."

Moore shocked Royals with a transfer request just a week before the start of the season.

The defender spoke out and admitted he felt Brighton had made a 'fair and substantial' offer for him.

Moore held talks with Royals owner Dai Yongee last Wednesday however and was told he was not for sale at any price.

And Clement was delighted with the club's decision.

He continued: "If you look at the valuations being thrown around for that player and you end up keeping him then it's like a big signing.

"I made it very clear from the start that I would be really happy if he stays, I'm delighted that he's stayed.

"He's a lot clearer in his own mind now because there was a lot of uncertainty and that can be hard on a player.

"I would like our fans to be patient with him because he's been a really good player for this club.

"I can understand the dilemma he was in - at his age and football is a short and precarious career. 

"You want to take every opportunity you get to play at the highest level and have that financial stability behind you.

"I'm very happy that our owners chose to keep Liam. I have to thank them really because it shows we're trying to build something here.

"We're not in the market to sell our best players."