The Egyptian midfielder, who joined from Ahli in the summer of 2007, was consistently snubbed by Boro's former coach Gareth Southgate and current one Gordon Strachan.

He said more than once he was looking to leave the club in the January transfer window but could now reconsider his decision.

Strachan might give Shawky a chance to prove his worth after putting him on the bench against City.

The 28-year-old did not play though as City reached the FA cup's fourth round with a narrow win over Middlesbrough, thanks to a goal from Zimbabwean striker Benjani on the stroke of halftime.

Shawky was left out of Egypt's squad for the African Cup of Nations due to lack of playing time with the English second-division side.