United manager Simon Grayson admits he will be monitoring the situation with Reading defender Sam Sodje over the coming weeks.

The Nigerian international spent the final two months of the season on loan at Elland Road, making seven appearances, and he was impressive alongside Richard Naylor at the heart of the defence.

The 29-year-old hadn't played due to injury for almost six months before making his Leeds debut in the 2-0 win against MK Dons in March, but he has now returned to his parent club where he remains under contract.

"Sam's been outstanding," said the manager. 

"He's rarely trained with us due to his need to rest between games, but he has done well in the games he's played. 

"He's done well, he will discuss his future in a meeting with Reading, and once any decision is made we'll see what's what.

"I thank him for his efforts as I do with Carl Dickinson, Liam Dickinson, Lee Trundle, and everyone who came on loan."

The boss admits he is a firm supporter of the loan market and says it is a more than useful way of squad strengthening, both short-term and longer-term.

"I don't mind using the loan market," he added. 

"It freshens up the squad and keeps everyone on their toes, whether it's month-to-month or six-month or season-long loans. 

"I'm happy to use that market and it's an option that's available to us, as well as the contracted players we've got."