Wilder favourite can be inspiration for Martin Payero if he wants to save Middlesbrough career

Martin Payero appears keen to save his Middlesbrough career this summer amid reports linking him with a return to Argentina. The young midfielder had a difficult first season as Boro as he struggled to adapt to the physical demands of the English league.

But amid speculation of a move to Argentina, the 23-year-old has said he has held no talks about a Boro exit, and spoke of his preference to stay in Europe and focus on breaking into the Middlesbrough team. The door is open for him to do so too, but he has a big pre-season ahead if he is to convince manager Chris Wilder.

Payero didn't have it easy in his first season on Teesside. Injuries occurred too often as he struggled with the demands of the Championship, and while there were flashes of the quality he possesses, he will have to do so much more if he is to find himself part of Wilder's plans next season.

Martin Payero discusses Middlesbrough future amid reports of a return to Argentina

Right now, he remains a Boro player until the club decide they've received an acceptable offer for the player they signed with so much promise last year. Boro fans were excited by his acquisition and are desperate to see him do well, but in Wilder, Boro have a demanding manager who is setting huge standards on Teesside and Payero has to raise his game if he's to convince the Boro boss.

The onus is on the young Argentine to do that, and he should get an opportunity to impress in pre-season, with a busy schedule of summer friendlies ahead in which he can show what he can do. And the good news for him is that, while Wilder might not be overly convinced yet, there are countless examples of players proving Wilder wrong and turning their careers around when they looked as good as buried