Real Madrid are understood to be considering recalling England
defender Jonathan Woodgate in January.
The central defender is currently on a season-long loan with his
hometown club Middlesbrough and he has thus far performed
admirably.
Ever since moving to the Spanish capital Woodgate has been dogged
by injury, but he is now beginning to prove his fitness and this
has not gone unnoticed at the Santiago Bernabeu.
"We are happy with Woodgate," said coach Fabio Capello.
"He is playing very well in England at the moment."
Capello refused to rule out the prospect of bringing Woodgate back
to Spain when the transfer window re-opened.
"If we come across a player that will improve the team then maybe
we will consider it, but we shall see."
Reports in Spain emerged last week suggesting that Madrid were
considering recalling Woodgate and now relegation threatened Boro
must be worried about the prospect of losing their key
defender.
Woodgate missed Boro's defeat to Fulham on Monday with a twisted
ankle but he is set to return to the team for Saturday's crucial
clash with Charlton, which will be a huge boost for manager Gareth
Southgate who is without Robert Huth and now Abel Xavier.
"Jonathan Woodgate should be back on Saturday, though Abel Xavier
might be seven-to-ten days while Robert Huth may be a bit longer,"
said Southgate.