Riley McGree has made his stance on remaining at Middlesbrough beyond the 2024 summer transfer window clear.
Riley McGree joined Middlesbrough from MLS side Charlotte FC in January 2022.
The Australian shone during his first half-season in the Championship, scoring four and assisting two from a midfield position.
The 23-year-old was then a key member of Michael Carrick’s side in 2022/23 when the club finished fourth in the league, losing a play-off semi-final to Coventry City.
However, the most recent campaign saw McGree fall out of favor somewhat for various reasons.
He left the Riverside Stadium midway through 2023/24 to represent Australia at the 2023 Asian Cup.
McGree also missed a number of games due to injury and even when available, appeared to be viewed as more of a back-up option by Carrick.
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Riley McGree seems happy to stay at Middlesbrough
In turn, with McGree now in the final 12 months of his current Boro contract, there was some speculation he could be moved on this summer.
One pundit shared his view that he would be happy to see the midfielder sold in the current window.
However, recent comments from McGree, via the Northern Echo, suggest he is eager to stay on Teesside and integrate himself back into the starting eleven.
He said: “Absolutely, on a personal level last season was very frustrating.
“But now it’s good being back on the pitch feeling fit, strong, healthy and being able to be myself again.
“I then came back here earlier than the rest of the lads to continue my work and my rehab to set myself up as best as I can for the season coming.
“There’s a real unity and feeling that everyone is working in the same direction to achieve the same goals this season.”
How Middlesbrough should use McGree in 2024/25
While he is yet to sign a new contract, McGree’s comments suggest he is eager to remain at Middlesbrough ahead of next season getting underway.
And though he was something of a fringe option in the previous campaign, there is a perfect role for the midfielder in 2024/25.
McGree is a natural central midfielder but previously excelled on the left wing during the 2022/23 season.
The arrivals of Sammy Silvera and Sam Greenwood last summer meant he was no longer needed for that role.
However, both players will not be at Boro in the coming campaign and Carrick is lacking quality options out wide, giving McGree a clear path to becoming a regular starter once more.