Speaking to the Northern Echo, Middlesbrough’s Grant Leadbitter has described the transfer window as a nightmare.

Leadbitter, who has been at the Riverside Stadium since 2012, was subject to interest from across the Sky Bet Championship over the summer.

Derby County, Sunderland and Sheffield Wednesday were three of the clubs interested in signing the 31-year-old midfielder, who has entered the final year of his contract at the Riverside Stadium.

However, Leadbitter has spoken out about his pleasure at coming back into the Boro first-team, describing the summer transfer window as a nightmare, he said: “I enjoy being in the team, I enjoy playing football. The window was a nightmare it always is for footballers. That’s part of football though.

“It’s nice to be playing again, that’s what you dream about. I had a long injury last season, which was horrible.”

The 31-year-old has made four appearances across all competitions this season, including the last two Championship fixtures, where he has helped Boro to four points away from home.

Garry Monk’s side put on an emphatic display last weekend to beat Bolton Wanderers 3-0 at the Macron Stadium, before travelling to Villa Park on Tuesday and coming away with a vital point following a goalless draw.

Leadbitter will be hoping to retain his place in Monk’s starting XI this weekend when Boro welcome Queens Park Rangers to the Riverside Stadium, where they will be looking to build on the 11 points they have picked up already this season.

The Verdict

It is easy to understand why Leadbitter will have been frustrated during the summer transfer window, with so much speculation surrounding the 31-year-old’s future.

However, the midfielder appears happy to still be at the Riverside Stadium, where he has a vital role to play under Monk this year.

The 31-year-old’s experience will be key in central midfield, and whilst he might not start every week, he will be a valued member of Boro’s squad.

Middlesbrough fans… Let us know your thoughts!