Jonathan Woodgate Not Sure If Real Madrid Want Him Back From Boro

Middlesbrough defender Jonathan Woodgate is unsure whether Real Madrid will want him back when his one-year loan spell in the Premiership ends. The centre back returned to his hometown club in August after being plagued by injuries in his two-year spell with the nine-times European champions, and the English side have an option to turn the loan move into a permanent one.

"Honestly, I don't know what will happen. All I want at the moment is to play lots of games here and help Middlesbrough earn a place in Europe," Woodgate told today's edition of sports daily AS.

"At the end of the season we'll have to wait and see," he continued. "I am extremely happy here and I don't know if Real want me to return. My future isn't in my hands. I have only spoken with Real's physiotherapists, with their doctor and David Beckham. I suppose it is normal no one else calls me."

The 26-year-old only played 14 competitive games with Real after joining from Newcastle United for $25 million in August 2004, but he has avoided serious injury with Middlesbrough and established himself as a first team regular making 13 league appearances so far this season.

"I am still a little way off being in perfect condition. But I feel better day by day," he added. "I have a personalised training plan and every day arrive an hour before everyone else, and leave two hours after everyone. I am working hard to be in top shape as soon as possible."

Woodgate has a contract with Real until 2008.