Neven Subotic is fit. Hurrah.
That means his failed summer move to Aitor Karanka’s Middlesbrough is going to be back in the spotlight. After playing for Borussia Dortmund’s U23 side last week, Subotic was filled with some confidence.
He spoke to German newspaper Bild, who asked specifically if he would move in the winter window after seeing the Middlesbrough deal fall down: Subotic replied: “This is an option. Before then there is still a bit of time. My concentration at the moment is: If I do not play games and get on the pitch, I cannot offer anything for Borussia Dortmund or any other club in the world. That’s why this is the most important thing now.”
Asked where he sees himself next year, Subotic explained: “Anything can happen. Everything that has to do with my contract, or with my future, I really do not care about it now. I trust my advisor. I do my work on the pitch. He will decide when it makes sense to talk about it.
“There is now nothing to talk with anyone – whether with Borussia Dortmund or another club – if I do not confirm my performance on the pitch. Otherwise there is no foundation. I do not want to live on my history. It is an indication of the quality I have, but I have to confirm this again.”
Good words from Subotic, who is well aware he’s just at the start of his return. Having suffered many injuries during his career, Subotic will know there could be further setbacks ahead.
Karanka and co will be keeping an eye on things for Middlesbrough, and there’s likely to be no decision considered until Subotic has proven he can stay fit for at least a month or so.
With a Dortmund contract running until June 2018, Middlesbrough may be able to build themselves a very favourable deal for the 27 year old. The idea of a loan, which would turn permanent should Subotic be picked in a number of Middlesbrough match-day squads, could suit everyone.
Then his chances of staying permanently would be down to whether he could stay fit or not.
