PAUL McShane remains a part of Jose Gomes’ first-team plans at Reading FC.

It was thought Royals’ skipper was one of several players transfer listed by new boss Jose Gomes and frozen out of first-team affairs.

But the Chronicle understands 33-year-old McShane is still recovering from injury and has not been told he can leave, despite having only six months left on his contract.

Gomes may want to keep McShane on board for insurance as Tyler Blackett has been heavily linked with Wigan Athletic and fellow centre-back Tiago Ilori is wanted by his former Portuguese club Sporting Lisbon.

A serious knee injury has limited McShane to just four first-team appearances this season, the last of which came in a 2-2 draw at Blackburn in August.

It is not known how long the Republic of Ireland defender will be sidelined for, though he is unlikely to be available for at least another two weeks.

Reading are keen to reduce the size of the squad and Gomes has wasted little time in acting.

David Myler, Vito Mannone and Marc McNulty have been slapped on the transfer list, while Dave Edwards’ contract was paid up early this week to allow him to sign a permanent deal with Shrewsbury Town.

Josh Sims also returned to Southampton on Monday midway through a season-long loan, while Pelle Clement and Adrian Popa both departed Madejski Stadium recently.

In addition, Academy Under 23 striker Ben House has joined Swindon Town on loan for the rest of the season.

Gomes made his first signing at Reading on Monday with the capture of Liverpool midfielder Ovie Ejaria on loan for the remainder of the campaign.

The 21-year-old could make his debut at home to Nottingham Forest this Saturday (3pm ko).

Royals are also being linked with Chelsea midfielder, Lewis Baker.