Ramirez’s future still in the balance

THE Gaston Ramirez “will-hestay or will-he-go” saga continues apace. It’s clear that Boro are prepared to sell the Uruguayan attacking midfielder, but only if the price is right. Otherwise he may be given the chance to rehabilitate himself at the Riverside and forge a place for himself in Garry Monk’s plans. Certainly the manager cannot help to have been impressed by Ramirez’s skills since the players returned for pre-season training. He is arguably the best ball player at the club.

Monk will have considered what can be achieved with Ramirez in his side, provided the Uruguayan stays fully focussed on the job in hand. Ramirez has been included both in Boro’s first team training and in friendly games this summer, which is an indication of how much he has impressed.

On the other hand Boro were prepared to sell him to Real Betis this week. However it broke down when Ramirez rejected the move.

Maybe the terms on offer from the Spanish side were poor. Maybe Ramirez wants to stay and fight for his place. There’s still a general unease about the Ramirez situation. His attitude in the second half of last season was considered by many to fall short of the accepted standards.

Boro’s decision to turn down a reported offer of £15m from Leicester City last January was blamed as the root cause of Ramirez’s loss of form.