Reading manager Brian McDermott has refused to rule out Danny Guthrie from his future plans if he can see an improvement in his attitude.
Guthrie has started just six matches for the Royals since joining on a free transfer from Newcastle United last summer.
The 25-year-old was fined two weeks' wages earlier this week after refusing to travel in the squad to play Sunderland on Tuesday night.
McDermott insisted that he will hold talks with Guthrie before the week is out but also offered the midfielder a lifeline.
He said: "Let's see where we are in a couple of days' time and go from there.
"There is always a way back."
The Royals are back in Premier League action on Monday night when they host Arsenal at the Madejski Stadium.