McClaren admits defeat in efforts to sign Butt

MIDDLESBROUGH manager Steve McClaren has all but admitted defeat in his bid to sign Manchester United midfielder Nicky Butt.

McClaren insisted earlier this month that his priorities lay elsewhere. However, it has emerged that Boro did make an enquiry, although were given little encouragement.

“He’s a player I’ve always admired, there’s no two ways about that, but we’ve made enquiries along those lines and I think the latest I have is that Nicky Butt is staying at Manchester United and that’s the end of that,” McClaren said.