Middlesbrough have admitted that Adam Johnson may be recalled early from his loan spell at Watford.
The 20-year-old midfielder joined The Hornets in September on a three-month loan, and has since made seven starts, scoring four goals.
Adrian Boothroyd recently voiced his desire to extend the youngster's stay, however Boro assistant manager Malcolm Crosby has confirmed that an extension is not on the cards.
Fantastic
Gareth Southgate's men are currently struggling in the Premier League, and Crosby admits they may be forced to call on Johnson's services.
"All season [loan] won't happen," he told the Sunday sun.
"Adam's been treated fantastically well by Watford and if we were in a winning run you'd be happy for him to stay there.
"But in the near future we may call him back, even before his three months are up. We might need him with us."
