READING manager Steve Clarke has added another goalkeeper to his squad with the the signing of Ali Al-Habsi on a two-year deal.

The experienced shot stopper played for the Royals in their pre-season tour of Thailand and the Championship side beat off interest from Middlesbrough and Stoke City to land the 33-year-old.

He joins after being a free agent following his release from Wigan Athletic and also played for Bolton Wanderers in the Premier League and has been linked with Liverpool and Chelsea in the past.

The Oman captain has been capped 102 times for his country, having made his international debut in 2002.

Reading boss Clarke said, “Ali is exactly the type of experienced goalkeeper that we need at this time and I'm delighted that he has chosen to join us.

“Alongside Jonathan Bond and Stuart Moore, Ali brings the goalkeeping department to a very good level and the competition for places should ensure a really high standard.”

Reading are in pre-season action on Tuesday night when they travel to League Two side Bristol Rovers.