The encouraging contract and transfer decisions which show Neil Warnock's influence at Middlesbrough
Duncan Watmore had a decision to make – a decision which the forward described as an easy one. Some wouldn’t have found it so straight forward though.
After impressing on a short-term deal at Middlesbrough, scoring five goals in six starts since signing for the Teessiders as a free agent, Watmore’s form understandably alerted several clubs who were aware of his expiring contract.
It’s understood the 26-year-old had several offers from Championship rivals, while there was also interest from the Premier League, as West Brom, managed by Watmore’s former boss Sam Allardyce, were credited with interest.
Financially, the player could have signed a better deal elsewhere yet, based on football alone, he knew that Boro was the best fit.
After being released by Sunderland last summer, Watmore almost moved abroad to play in the Indian Super League and was desperate for a chance to prove himself after years of injury setbacks.
Just a few months ago, a two-and-a-half-year contract at a Championship club fighting for promotion would have been almost unthinkable for the forward.
He didn’t forget the faith Boro and manager Neil Warnock placed in him or the success he’s enjoyed since.
Of course it was only natural to assess all the options. In the end, though, the decision was a no-brainer.
“I’m absolutely delighted to have signed,” Watmore told the club’s website.
“Ever since I came here a few months ago, I’ve been treated so well by everyone involved. I’ve loved my time here, and I’m looking forward to playing a lot more for the Boro.
“There were other clubs that were interested, but it was an easy decision. Boro is a fantastic club. I’m very grateful for the opportunity the club gave me, and the faith that was shown in me.”
Watmore’s decision is further evidence of the feelgood factor at Boro under Warnock.
When the forward signed for the Teessiders in November, Watmore’s father Ian told the Mail: “He’s absolutely loving it.
“He likens the mood there to when Sunderland were doing well under Sam Allardyce. It’s an environment where you want to go every day rather than feel you should."
That is evident by the number of players who have signed new deals at Boro this season, with Jonny Howson, Anfernee Dijksteel, Marc Bola and Paddy McNair all putting pen to paper.
McNair has played in defence all season, despite previously saying he’s naturally a midfielder, yet the Northern Ireland international is enjoying some of the best form of his career under Warnock.
Watmore knew McNair and Ashley Fletcher from their time together at Sunderland, as well as Chuba Akpom, a former England Under-21 team-mate.
The camaraderie among the group is another reason why Watmore decided to stay on Teesside, and the forward will hope for more moments like his match-winning double in December’s 2-1 win over Swansea.
“In the dressing room after I’d scored I got a round of applause,” recalled Watmore. “There’s a real good energy and vibe around the place, I do feel very lucky to be here.
“I put a hell of a lot of work in lockdown because I wanted to be ready for when someone gave me a chance, and all the fitness work and gym work has paid off.”