No new deal for Hasselbaink

New Middlesbrough boss Gareth Southgate demonstrated a ruthless streak today when he told Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink his contract will not be renewed.

Still settling into his job, the 35-year-old former England defender took the difficult decision to dispense with the Dutchman’s services as he looks to re-shape his squad for the new campaign.

Southgate, who played alongside the 34-year-old former Leeds and Chelsea star during the last two years of his career, admitted he had reached his conclusion reluctantly.

He said: “I have spoken to Jimmy and explained to him we are not going to renew his contract.

“It was a very difficult decision to make because he has done an excellent job for us.

“I have to make some tough decisions in this job and this one certainly wasn’t easy, but I have to do what I think is right for the club.

“Jimmy’s a good player and I’m sure he will score goals for somebody. But I’ve got excellent striking options here and feel we really need to strengthen in other positions that have to take priority.

“He scored some very important goals for us over the last two seasons, helping to get us into Europe in the first place and then playing a big part in our run to the UEFA Cup final.”

Hasselbaink joined Boro from Chelsea on a free transfer two summers ago as then manager Steve McClaren looked to add firepower to his side.

In all, Hasselbaink managed 35 goals in his two seasons at the Riverside Stadium, although the arrival of Aiyegbeni Yakubu from Portsmouth a year ago increased competition for places.

The Dutchman was initially the victim, although his potency when called upon eventually won him a starting berth as Yakubu’s initial goal-rush subsided.

However, with his contract up at the end of last month, Hasselbaink’s future has been in doubt for some time.

With no talks having taken place, he stated his case ahead of the UEFA Cup final.

He said: “I feel I can play two more years.

“I’m fit, and although sometimes I need more than a day to recover, I definitely feel I can score more goals at Premiership level.

“When I do finish, I want to do so at the highest level. With all due respect, I don’t want to play in the lower leagues.”

But for all his qualities, his age and wage packet mean he does not fit into Southgate’s plans, much to the player’s disappointment.

Southgate said: “Jimmy was naturally disappointed with the decision, but I’m sure he’ll move on to another challenge.

“I got on very well with Jimmy because he is a real character, so I wish him well wherever he decides to go next. I’m sure Boro fans will retain fond memories of him too.”

Newcastle had briefly considered renewing their interest in Hasselbaink, although manager Glenn Roeder will not be pursuing him, leaving Scottish champions Celtic leading the race for his signature.