Last Updated: Thu, 01 May 2008 10:42
Reading will be without Adam Federici for the start of next season and the summer tour of Sweden as he is to play in the Olympics.
The Australian is number two at club behind Marcus Hahnemann but he believes going to the Olympics in the summer will enhance his chances of becoming the club's first choice keeper.
Federici told the Evening Post: "It was a really hard decision, but after speaking with the gaffer and the manager of the national team we came to the conclusion it was for the best.
"I want to be here with Reading, but I can still do most of the pre-season before going off and playing a few friendlies and then playing in the actual tournament.
"It is probably more worthwhile playing seven or so competitive international games than staying at Reading and playing against League 1 and Championship sides and sharing those games with Marcus.
"It will also be a proud moment for me to represent my country in the Olympics. It is a massive tournament, and I should come back with the experience under my belt.
"I have been told I am going out there as No. 1 so it's up to me to play well in the friendlies and then we'll take it from there."