ALEN Boksic is ready to revive his international career - but only when Middlesbrough's relegation issues are resolved.

The £2.5m striker has responded to pleas from Croatia by agreeing to rejoin their World Cup campaign.

But Boksic has declined to link up with the squad for their friendly with Greece next week because of his Premiership commitments.

Instead, he will delay his return and take part in their World Cup qualifying games in the summer, starting with San Marino in June.

A spokesman for the Croatian football federation confirmed yesterday: "Boksic will be back in the squad for the game against San Marino."

The 30-year-old retired from the international scene last November after being affected by a series of injuries following his move to Boro from Lazio last July.

It was a decision he made reluctantly but felt there was no option after questions were raised about his fitness record.

He has missed Croatia's last two matches but changed his mind after an injury-free run and said: "Qualifying for the World Cup finals is very important to my country."

He has started 15 of the last 16 Middlesbrough matches and has totalled 11 goals, all in the Premiership. Meanwhile, centre back Steve Vickers is doubtful for the crucial visit to Leicester on Saturday, leaving Boro with problems at the back with Gianluca Festa and Curtis Fleming definitely out.