Boro striker Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink is keen to extend his stay at the Riverside when his contract expires at the end of this season, writes Adam Murray.

The 33-year-old, who was an unused substitute at Villa Park,was back in first-team action in Boro's hard-earned draw against Greek side Xanthi on Thursday and is looking to secure his long-term future on Teesside.

Hasselbaink gets stiff competition from Yakubu, Mark Viduka and the rejuvenated Massimo Maccarone for a starting spot, but he is determined to prove his worth to manager Steve McClaren.

"I'm playing and I enjoy myself at the moment. It's up to the club if they want to keep me. I'm definitely open for talks because I'm happy where I am," said Hasselbaink.

"Of course I want to play as much as possible. I'm getting fit and you only get fit if you're getting games. But it's up to the manager to make those decisions.

"People say they are happy to fight for their place, but no player accepts he has to sit on the bench. Every player wants to be on the pitch.

"For me there's been a difficult start to the season. I injured my ankle and my thigh so I'm just happy to be back available."

* George Boateng has been recalled by Holland's coach Marco van Basten for the Group One World Cup qualifiers away to the Czech Republic on October 8 and home to Macedonia four days later.

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