Premiership: Ince keen on finishing at Boro
Paul Ince has admitted he would like to end his playing days at Middlesbrough.
He will begin contract talks in the new year, amid suggestions he could be ready to return to Italy before hanging up his boots.
Ince, though, has said he would relish the chance of an extended stay.
"The important thing is to get Christmas out of the way and then hopefully we'll have a look at the situation," he told the club's official website.
"I wouldn't want to leave things any longer.
"As regards the contract situation, I've had three great years here and we'll have to see if something comes up that I like.
"I can see no reason why I shouldn't finish my career here at Middlesbrough, if everything is right."
Ever since Bryan Robson parted company with the club, speculation has been rife that Ince's days would be numbered.
New manager Steve McClaren has insisted from day one, however, that Ince remains a key part of his plans.
