David Strelec's immediate future at Middlesbrough is now confirmed, with the forward set to stay at the Riverside until at least January. The closure of the Greek transfer window and PAOK's failure to qualify for Europe has ended speculation over a summer move for the Slovakian.

Strelec made a brief cameo in the recent 2-2 draw with Millwall, entering for the final five minutes and managing just one touch. That appearance came as Middlesbrough mounted a stirring comeback from two goals down, with Amario Cozier-Duberry and Will Lankshear finding the net. The result is part of a solid start that sees Boro sitting third in the Championship with 15 points from eight games, just two points off the top.

Transfer speculation ends

Interest from Greek side PAOK, which had been tracking the 25-year-old, has now cooled significantly. Their failure to secure a place in the Europa Conference League group stage removed a key motivation for the potential deal. With the summer window in Greece now shut, any possibility of a move before the new year has passed.

Manager Kim Hellberg has been clear about Strelec's status, stating the player will be here and is a very good part of his plans. The international break ahead is viewed as a key period for Strelec to build his fitness, akin to a mini pre-season after he missed the full summer programme due to injury.

Building towards full fitness

Hellberg confirmed that while Strelec is back in full training with the squad, he is not yet physically ready to complete a full 90 minutes. The forward has made just two substitute appearances this season, totalling only eight minutes of action. His gradual reintegration comes as Boro enjoy a strong league position, with top scorer Will Lankshear already netting six times in eight appearances to make himself undroppable.

Strelec is expected to be part of the Slovakia squad for the upcoming international fixtures, which will provide further opportunity for match sharpness. His return to full capacity could be a timely boost for Middlesbrough's promotion push, with the club's standings showing they are firmly in the early mix for a top-three finish.

The next challenge is a significant one at the Riverside, with fourth-placed Wolves visiting on 10 October. Hellberg will hope to have more options available, including a fitter Strelec, for a fixture that could have a major say in the early season table. Fans can check the full run-in on the club's fixtures page as the campaign intensifies.

More detail at Teesside Live