Ray Parlour responded to allegations that Isaiah Jones is looking to leave Boro.
Former Middlesbrough midfielder Ray Parlour believes his former club should try to keep Isaiah Jones in next month’s transfer window, despite speculation that the player wants to leave.
Jones, once one of Boro’s most promising players, has failed since Michael Carrick’s arrival owing to both on- and off-field troubles. This season, he’s slid down the pecking order since Ben Doak’s arrival on loan late in the summer transfer window, following his own disappointing start to the season.
Jones has been a valuable member of Boro’s squad this season, often coming off the bench. However, he has only started one game since September, leading to speculation that he may leave in the January transfer window to gain more playing time.
Having said that, there are no signals of unrest around the club, and his performances from the bench reveal a player who is still very committed to the cause. And, with the 25-year-old under contract for another two seasons, Parlour has explained why he intends to keep Jones on Teesside.
In an interview with Football League World, the former Boro player stated that strength in depth is essential and that he prefers to strengthen rather than lose players in January. The second half of the season is critical for keeping everyone fit, and Carrick believes he can put his squad in an excellent position to contend for promotion in May. Although Jones may have fallen down the pecking order, he has the potential to be an important player for Boro in 2025.
Another aspect Boro will undoubtedly examine if Jones’ future becomes a choice that must be taken in January is the fact that they have no long-term plans to sign Doak. The Liverpool loanee is highly regarded at Anfield and will almost probably return next season to compete for first-team play.
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