Geremi has thanked Middlesbrough for reviving his career – but warned the Teessiders he is unlikely to stay at the Riverside next season. The Cameroon international joined Boro on a year-long loan deal from Spanish giants Real Madrid last summer.
And a string of impressive performances have made the 24-year-old midfielder a firm favourite with the fans.
However, with cash-strapped Boro unable to meet Real’s £8 million asking price while the transfer window is open, it seems they may not get the chance come the summer.
« Things are going really well for me at Middlesbrough and the most radical change is that I am now playing every game, » said Geremi, who spent three frustrating seasons laregly on the sidelines at the Bernabeu.
« Playing, and playing lots of games, allows you to demonstrate your quality and your true level. If you are on the bench you can’t demonstrate anything.
« But I have not thought about the future. I am here on loan and I know I must return to Madrid. We’ll see what happens in the future, but in principle I came here only for a year. »
The first half of that year has seen Geremi star as one of Boro’s best players, but the player admits he took time to settle.
« English football is very different to Spanish, much faster and more dynamic. In general, getting used to this country took longer than in Spain, which is more like Cameroon.
« But at Boro I can move all over the midfield as the manager has given me a lot of responsibility and I try to help the team with my experience and quality. »
Meanwhile, Boro are believed to have been offered the chance to sign Milan’s Brazilian defender Roque Junior.
The 26-year-old is out of favour at the San Siro, but a move for the £5 million-rated player is unlikely as, even with Ugo Ehiogu out, Boro’s transfer priority lies in midfield and attack.
Steve Brown
