Geremi recalls failed Middlesbrough transfer – and tips Boro for Championship promotion

Former Newcastle United, Chelsea and Real Madrid midfielder Geremi revealed why he was never able to sign on a permanent basis for Championship high-flyers Middlesbrough.

The Cameroonian midfielder joined Boro on loan for the 2002-3 season, and he thanked manager Steve McClaren and the clubs for giving him “one of the best seasons of my career” as the team and player impressed in the Premier League.

However, despite the loan going well, it was Chelsea who ended up signing the player the following summer, with Geremi believing that Middlesbrough simply could not afford him, while Roman Abramovich had arrived to bankroll Chelsea’s ascent.

Geremi also said that Boro are a club that “deserves” to get back into the top flight, and they are currently sitting top of the Championship after five games.

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Geremi recalls playing days with Boro

For Boro fans dreaming of a return to the Premier League, their current strong start to the Championship campaign has fuelled plenty of optimism – and for those who enjoy adding an extra edge to their football experience, sites like BestBettingSites.co.uk offer a range of options, from outright promotion odds to more adventurous punts, not unlike the high-stakes gamble Abramovich took when transforming Chelsea.

In an exclusive interview, Geremi opened up on his time at Middlesbrough and explained why a permanent move never materialised.

“Honestly, staying at Middlesbrough was never on the cards for me,” he said. “I had one of the best seasons of my career there, and I’m grateful to Steve McClaren and the club for making it possible. 

“It gave me a chance to prove myself after coming from Real Madrid. Real did not want to sell me, so I asked for a loan, and so I joined Boro. 

“When I signed for them, I had a good season, but I think they weren’t able to sign me on a permanent deal.

“Chelsea came in and they made a bid that was accepted, and that’s why I went there. 

“I went as part of the Roman Abramovich takeover, and he had the cash to buy players. But I have great memories of playing for Boro.”

Geremi backs Boro promotion push and tips Lampard for success at Coventry

Geremi also said that Boro are a club that “deserves” to get back into the top flight, as they are currently sitting top of the Championship after five games, with West Bromwich Albion up next this Friday.

He added: “I really hope Middlesbrough get back into the Premier League. I remember every match I played with them, and I look out for them still now.

“I think how they’ve started is a good sign, and they look determined to get back into the top flight. I think they are a side that deserves to get back to the top.”

The 46-year-old also gave his thoughts on former team-mate Frank Lampard, now Coventry City boss, and whether he can guide the Sky Blues to the Premier League this season.

“I think Frank has already impressed at a few clubs now,” he explained. “I think at Chelsea he did well particularly, and maybe he didn’t match that success elsewhere.

“But he looks like he’s well qualified to succeed with Coventry this season, and I think he could take them up.

“I think for him, the important thing is that he does well this season and then takes stock. Coventry, it’s a great city, it’s a big club.

“He has the chance to re-establish his reputation and then come back strongly. I think then he’ll be in a position to take on another big role.

“It’s like being a footballer, often you have to move to improve your career every few years. But right now, things are looking good at Coventry.”

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