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Martin Braithwaite explains Middlesbrough exit & emphasises importance of Bordeaux loan move

Updated:  2 FEB 2018

Martin Braithwaite claims his spell at Middlesbrough “changed a lot for him” following the managerial change over Christmas.

The Denmark international was one of Garry Monk’s marquee signings just seven months ago, penning a four-year contract on Teesside after Boro agreed a reported £9m fee with Toulouse.

After recovering from an early-season hamstring complaint, Braithwaite became a virtual ever-present in Monk’s XI and scored four goals in 15 appearances under the former Leeds and Swansea boss.

But Braithwaite’s position came under threat after Monk was axed on December 23, with the 26-year-old failing to complete a single 90 minutes under new manager Tony Pulis.

With his World Cup place hanging in the balance, Braithwaite pushed through a quick-fire move back to France on deadline day and will now spend the next four months at Bordeaux, who have the option to sign the attacker permanently in the summer.

Earlier today, without naming Braithwaite, Pulis claimed it was “astonishing” that certain individuals who only signed for Boro a few months ago wanted to leave the North-east in January.

During his unveiling in France, Braithwaite tried to explain his reason for leaving Boro and reiterated his desire to make Denmark’s squad for this summer’s World Cup.

“I started well in Middlesbrough, I liked it there but there was a change (of coach) at the club and it changed a lot for me,” Braithwaite said.

“The next six months are very important for my career and for the World Cup. I spoke with Bordeaux, I saw their project and it interested me. I’m happy to be here.

“You can never be sure in life, you must be successful. I’m here to give everything. It’s the coach (Gus Poyet) who decides if I play. I’m just here to play football.

“I want (Bordeaux) to climb the rankings and have victories. I think the team can do even better. It must be shown.”

Braithwaite’s decision to head to Bordeaux was initially met with frustration on Teesside – and anger in the south of France.

After spending four years at Toulouse, Braithwaite’s decision to move back to a French top-flight rival has infuriated many supporters who used to chant the forward’s name.

“I understand (Toulouse supporters are frustrated), they are disappointed,” Braithwaite said.

“But at the same time when I was there, I gave everything for Toulouse all the time.

“I have no regrets, it will always be good memories and I will never forget that. If people hate me because I’m here, I can not change anything.

“My son is from Toulouse, I met my wife in Toulouse. It will always be special for me. If people change their minds about me because I’m in Bordeaux, I can not control that.”

Braithwaite could make his Bordeaux debut in Saturday’s game at Strasbourg, and his new boss Poyet spoke of his delight to have the Dane onboard.

Martin Braithwaite in action for Boro at Wolves (Image: Avril husband / Griffiths Photog)
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“My son is from Toulouse, I met my wife in Toulouse. It will always be special for me. If people change their minds about me because I’m in Bordeaux, I can not control that.”

Braithwaite could make his Bordeaux debut in Saturday’s game at Strasbourg, and his new boss Poyet spoke of his delight to have the Dane onboard.

“I know Martin very well because when I was in Spain (coaching at Real Betis) I tried to sign him.

“I needed an attacker who could play in the (hole) or on the side, but it was not possible at that time.

“But this time we found the possibility, even though it was on the last day of the transfer window. He will help us a lot.”