Federici was granted his wish to be left out of the Socceroos' squad for this month's Asian Cup, preferring to focus on Reading's push for promotion from the Championship.

And McDermott told the Reading Post he was delighted the in-form Federici would be around in January to help the Royals' charge.

"Fedders has been fantastic ever since he's come in and it's great news he will be with us for January," he said.

"It's only really now that he is getting the rave reviews, but we've all believed in him since he took over as our No.1.

"He's a great keeper and we're glad to have him at Reading. There isn't a better keeper in this league right now.

"Everything about him, from his attitude to his manner around the group, it's spot on. He works his nuts off and it's great credit to him."