Xavier contract concern for Boro

Xavier says he is committed to Middlesbrough

Middlesbrough defender Abel Xavier has revealed that a "special clause" in his contract could see him leave the club for free after 14 January.

"I have a special clause that releases me from my contract in 10 days," Xavier told BBC Radio Cleveland.

"For that reason, the club must act fast. The decision is not in my hands, but my total commitment is with Middlesbrough football club."

Xavier, 34, also revealed that several clubs were interested in signing him.

Interview: Middlesbrough's Abel Xavier

The defender is currently in his second spell at the club and has made 10 appearances so far this season.

In 2005 he was found guilty of taking the performance enhancing drug dianabol, and sacked by Middlesbrough.

But in October 2006, the club re-signed him after a successful spell in the reserves.