Tainio could come back to Sunderland
ON-LOAN Sunderland midfielder Teemu Tainio admits he is "open-minded" about his long-term future.
Tainio had previously expressed a desire to try and convince Birmingham City boss Alex McLeish he was worthy of a permanent deal.
But the Sunderland man is facing fresh competition at St Andrew's from January arrivals Craig Gardner (Aston Villa) and Michel (Sporting Gijon).
Tainio said: "I have one more year at Sunderland on my contract. If the club tell me I am staying, then I stay.
"I am really open-minded on my future. I will just play to the end of the season with Birmingham, and hopefully I will get a few more games.
"When you see what the team has done this year, it's really good. It's hard to say what will happen, but I am open-minded."
Tainio has just returned to full fitness after undergoing knee surgery, and is ready to challenge for a spot despite the additions to McLeish's squad.
He said: "I am pleased I am back. My knee feels good. I haven't had any problems since the operation.
"The injury is done and dusted, and I hope I can get to play a part.
"I had a chat with the manager when I was near to fitness, and he said it would be tough to get in again because the team was playing well.
"When I was out, a few midfielders came in. You need a big squad because there are a lot of games. There is a big fight for places here.
"There are a very good bunch of midfielders here. But I am ready for the challenge."
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Weather for South Shields
Saturday 11 February 2012
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