Xavier issues Boro warning
24 Jan 2007 - 12:02:18
Defender Abel Xavier has warned Middlesbrough they risk losing him unless they open negotiations on a new contract.
Xavier, 34, has made nine appearances this season after completing a 12-month drugs ban in November.
Boro cancelled the contract of the former Portugal international after he failed a drugs test in 2005, but allowed the player to continue training with the first-team squad.
The former Everton and Liverpool defender was offered a short-term deal until the end of the season following the conclusion of his ban, and now he is looking to open negotiations on a new deal after claiming there has been interest from other clubs.
"You expect some consideration," Xavier is quoted as saying.
"When I came here I accepted anything. The club put a contract on the table and I signed.
"I wanted to show I'm capable and now we have until the end of the month to clarify the situation. The club know I have other offers.
"I'm grateful to the club for sticking by me. You show gratitude in the way you perform. Now I want to be treated as a normal player."