Boro seal deal for England youth

Middlesbrough have confirmed the signing of England youth defender Chris Smalling from Ryman League side Maidstone United.

Smalling, 18, has agreed a two-year deal and academy boss Dave Parnaby was delighted with his acquisition.

"We tracked Chris through his international programme with England," he said.

"He is a very intelligent and level-headed young man who we feel has a lot of potential to fulfil."

Meanwhile Boro boss Gareth Southgate has thanked chairman Steve Gibson for backing him during a mixed season.

"I'm determined to reward the faith Steve has had in me," he said.

"When times are difficult is when he's most supportive. I'm delighted for him because he's given me an opportunity here."

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