COLIN COOPER insists he could still be part of the set-up at Middlesbrough next season.

The former England defender has joined rivals Sunderland on loan for the rest of this term and is eligible for Sunday's FA Cup semi-final against his former club Millwall at Old Trafford.

But 37-year-old Cooper, out of contract this summer, yesterday revealed he is already weighing up "a couple of options'' to extend his Boro career.

Cooper was a key man at the heart of defence this season until Ugo Ehiogu's return at the turn of the year after a cruciate injury.

Boro boss Steve McClaren also handed Cooper the responsibility of taking charge of reserve-team games, a task that has whetted his appetite for a future career in full-time coaching.

Asked if he expected to move on at the end of the season, Cooper said: "No. It's all chats at the moment. I'm hearing that the manager is talking about different players there who are out of contract, and I am one of them.

"I have had conversations with the manager and other people at Middlesbrough and my future is yet to be decided.

"I've been told there may be something for me at Middlesbrough. When you get to the stage I'm at in my career, you just see what comes along. As it stands, there may be a couple of options for me.

"If you're 37 and have options, you're not doing too badly, and that's all I ask for really.''

It is understood McClaren has no intention of recalling Cooper from Sunderland, even though Ehiogu is battling to overcome a foot injury and Andrew Davies is a long-term casualty after suffering a double leg break.

The news on Ehiogu was encouraging yesterday, with Boro's medical staff said to be optimistic he will be fit to return for Saturday's home game against Bolton after missing last weekend's 1-1 draw at Everton.

But Brazilian midfielder Doriva, who picked up a groin injury at Goodison Park, is rated doubtful for the Carling Cup final rematch with Sam Allardyce's side