UGO Ehiogu has admitted he is unlikely to have a future at Middlesbrough but, after kicking off a loan spell at Leeds on Tuesday, the defender is hoping to make a return to the top-flight in January.

With Jonathan Woodgate, Emanuel Pogatetz, Robert Huth and Chris Riggott ahead of him in the Riverside pecking order, Ehiogu was allowed to move to Elland Road this month.

He made his Leeds debut in Tuesday night's 2-1 defeat at Burnley and is expected to continue in Dennis Wise's side when Barnsley travel to Elland Road at the weekend.

Given the depth of defensive talent currently at Gareth Southgate's disposal, a return to Teesside appears extremely unlikely.

But after spending more than a decade in the top-flight, Ehiogu has not given up hope of a Premiership return once the transfer window re-opens in January.

"Do I have a future at Middlesbrough? At the present moment it's looking unlikely because of the number of centre-halves they have there," admitted the former England international.

"But you never know in football. There can be so many swings and turns, you can't rule out anything.

"I'm certainly open-minded, but my aim is to get back playing in the top-flight.

"I'm not at a crossroads but, if something came up and appealed to me, and it was alright with Middlesbrough, it's something I'd have to have a look at."

While Ehiogu was always going to struggle to force his way into Southgate's plans, the 34-year-old's chances were hardly helped by an Achilles injury he sustained in the summer.

Prior to Tuesday, his competitive involvement had been limited to 150 minutes with Boro's reserve team but, despite his lack of involvement, he was not forced to leave the Riverside.

Instead, he opted to move to Leeds in search of first-team football, a decision he hopes will prove beneficial to both parties.

"It was my decision and there was no pressure," said Ehiogu. "I didn't have to come - I could have stayed where I was and got fit.

"But it's not just about fitness, it's about coming to Leeds United and improving them. My match fitness isn't what I'd want it to be, but it's not far off. We need to make a sensible plan.

"I'm coming back from a major injury and I need to make sure I don't get run into the ground.

"But I've also got an input that I want to give to Leeds United. I tend to be a natural organiser and I've got experience. Maybe I can bring on a couple of other people and raise their games. That would be worthwhile."

l Youngster Tom Craddock made a goalscoring return to action yesterday as Middlesbrough reserves beat Leeds 3-0 in a behind-closed-doors friendly at Thorp Arch.

The 20-year-old, who damaged medial ligaments while on loan at Wrexham in October, was the star performer in a strong line-up that also included Brad Jones, Adam Johnson and David Wheater. Danny Graham and Graham Owens completed the scoring.