Matic and Juraj Hovancik have delivered positive reports on their time at Middlesbrough this month.

The duo were both on trial with the Teessiders, and while Boro boss Gareth Southgate claims a final decision will not be taken on their future until their Slovakian employers discuss financial arrangements, both Matic and Hovancik are hopeful of securing permanent deals next month.

“It was very good there,”

said Matic, who had to cut his trial short when he received a call-up to the Serbia squad.

“I underwent a medical then, for two days, I was training with the team and got to know the coach, Gareth Southgate.

“I have a good feeling overall about it.

“To play in England is a dream for everyone, including me. There are some other offers and everything will be decided during January.”

Hovancik added: “I was at Middlesbrough for only two weeks, but it was a superb experience.

“Middlesbrough have only four training sessions a week, but everyone shows their maximum effort.

“It is played at an extreme tempo and very aggressively, and the facilities are fantastic.”