George Boateng insists that being Middlesbrough captain does not guarantee him his place in the starting line-up.
Boro skipper to fight for place
George Boateng insists that being Middlesbrough captain does not guarantee him his place in the starting line-up.
Boateng has been pushed into duty on the right side of midfield so far this term and the Dutchman has excelled.
However, with the club signing Gary O'Neil from Portsmouth - the competition for places in midfield is intense with Fabio Rochemback and Julio Arca the current preferred pairing in the middle.
Up for fight
"Yes there is competition but I don't mind. This is my sixth season here and I've never ever been stressed out and demanded that I should play," said Boateng.
"Even though I'm captain now I've never said it.
"The only way that I'm capable of demanding a place is by performing well and that counts for everyone.
"Make no mistake about it I'm willing to play in any position in midfield as long as I'm playing.
"The only way to guarantee your place is to play well and that goes for anyone coming into the side as well, we have a lot more depth now."
Versatile
Boateng insists he is more than capable of playing on the right, adding: "I will always do what's best for the team - I've even played right-back believe it or not.
"I am very versatile although I prefer the midfield. But it doesn't matter because I can play in any position.
"I personally don't fear my position or being left out - I just do my best in every game.
"I'm 31 going on 32, I've been through a lot in my career. I have no fear in terms of my position. All I have to do is play well and make sure the manager keeps on picking me.
"Gary O'Neil will add to the competition. He's fit, he has lots of Premier League experience and he can play in a number of positions.
"At the moment what's more important for me is that there is understanding there between me, Fabio Rochemback and Julio Arca."
