His appearances for Boro may have been limited of late, but on loan defender Kenneth Omeruo is confident he is ready to play Premier League football for Chelsea.
The Nigerian has been on Teesside since last January and played in the World Cup for his country in the summer.
He has found himself out of favour under Aitor Karanka in recent months but says he is excited to return to Stamford Bridge.
Omeruo told BBC Sport: "I've gained great experience and wait for the chance to be in the Premier League next season.
"I'm confident I can break into Chelsea's first team at some point. Chelsea knows that too, if not I wouldn't have a long-term contract."
The 21-year-old has enjoyed playing in the Championship and believes he has gained valuable experience.
"If you look at the teams who were relegated last season from the Premier League, they are struggling to get to the play-offs positions. So that tells you how hard the league is. It is a strong, physical league and you have to always be mentally ready," he said.
"I still have to take things step by step," he said. "I have to stay focused on Middlesbrough and help the team the best way I can."
Omeruo will hope to play a part in the run-in as Boro face a critical seven games in their bid to seal an automatic promotion place.
He added: "We have been doing good the past few weeks. There are some games we could have done better but we are still in third place.
"We are looking forward to the next game and giving our best. Everyone knows in the club the target is to win the league or be second.
"I am confident we will get promotion."
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