Middlesbrough defender Neil Taylor has admitted that whilst he would like to extend his stay at the Riverside Stadium, a new deal is not at the forefront of his mind.
Taylor joined Boro on a short-term contract earlier this year which is set to expire next month.
After being included in the club's match-day squad for their clashes with Millwall, Preston North End, Huddersfield Town, Swansea City and Stoke City, the left-back was finally handed the chance to showcase his talent in last weekend's meeting with AFC Bournemouth.
Taylor went on to produce an assured performance against Scott Parker's side as he helped Middlesbrough claim a clean-sheet in this game.
Andraz Sporar scored what turned out to be the winning goal for Boro in the second-half as they moved to within two points of the play-off places.
Set to face Nottingham Forest on Boxing Day, Middlesbrough will be determined to extend their current unbeaten run to five games in this fixture.
Ahead of this game, Taylor has admitted that he is not currently focusing on his contract situation.
Speaking to BBC Radio Tees Sport (as cited by Teesside Live) about whether he is hoping to get an extended deal at Boro, the 32-year-old said: "Yeah, but listen, it's not at the forefront of my mind at the minute.
"I'm sure that will be discussed after the Christmas period or whatever.
"I'm fairly relaxed on it.
"I'm enjoying my football and I'm enjoying being here so that's something to look to in the future.
"It's such a busy festive period so there isn't really any time to sit down and do stuff like that.
"It's all about preparation, playing, and then recovery after a game.
"I've enjoyed my time here, I'm really thankful to the club and Chris [Wilder] for bringing me in, so we'll just see what happens in January."
The Verdict
If Taylor is able to replicate the display that he produced against the Cherries during the club's upcoming clashes with Forest and Blackpool, it wouldn't be at all surprising if he is offered a new contract by Middlesbrough.
During last Saturday's fixture, the Welshman made one key pass and blocked one shot (as per WhoScored) as he helped his side seal all three points in-front of their supporters.
Certainly no stranger to life in this division, Taylor knows exactly what it takes to succeed at this level as he has played 108 Championship games during his career.
By using his experience to his advantage, the left-back could play an influential role for Boro as they look to climb the second-tier standings in the coming weeks.