Tainio faces uncertain future

Finnish midfielder admits he has no idea what's in store

By Jamie Casey   Last updated: 15th March 2010   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Tainio faces uncertain future

Tainio: Been in England since 2005

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Sunderland midfielder Teemu Tainio, on-loan at Birmingham, is keeping an open mind over his future.

The Finland international, 30, has struggled with injury since his summer loan switch to St Andrews and Birmingham's solid midfield has left his chances limited since his latest return to fitness.

January signings Craig Gardner and Spaniard Michel have ousted Tainio further down the midfield pecking order in boss Alex McLeish's plans.

At Sunderland, meanwhile, a host of summer signings from Stadium of Light boss Steve Bruce means the Finn may be surplus to requirements upon his return at the end of the season.

Tainio is unfazed by the uncertainty surrounding his future and insists, while his future is out of his hands, he will continue to work hard in a bid to get some minutes on the pitch at Birmingham.

"I have one more year at Sunderland on my contract. If the club tell me I am staying, then I stay," said the former Tottenham player.

Open-minded

"I am really open-minded on my future. I will just play to the end of the season with Birmingham and hopefully I will get a few more games.

"When you see what the team has done this year, it's really good. It's hard to say what will happen but I am open-minded."

Tainio has just returned to full fitness after undergoing knee surgery and is ready to challenge for a spot despite strong competition in the Blues' squad.

"I am pleased I am back. My knee feels good. I haven't had any problems since the operation," he said.

"The injury is done and dusted and I hope I can get to play a part," he added, despite being ineligible when Sunderland host Birmingham on Saturday.

"I had a chat with the manager when I was near to fitness and he said it would be tough to get in again because the team was playing well.

"When I was out, a few midfielders came in. You need a big squad because there are a lot of games. There is a big fight for places here.

"There are a very good bunch of midfielders here. But I am ready for the challenge."