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
