New deal for Jones

Middlesbrough goalkeeper Brad Jones has signed a new three-and-a-half-year contract.

The 26-year-old Australian has committed himself to the club until 2012 to end speculation over his future.

Jones, who joined Boro as a trainee, is currently understudy to Ross Turnbull, who had established himself as number one since Mark Schwarzer’s departure for Fulham during the summer.

Turnbull is currently in talks over his own new deal with his contract due to expire at the end of the season.

Meanwhile, striker Jeremie Aliadiere could be out of action for up to eight weeks after a Harley Street specialist confirm he damaged ankle ligaments during Saturday’s 2-1 FA Cup third-round win over non-league Barrow.

The injured ankle has been immobilised in a special boot, which the 25-year-old will wear for two weeks, and he will then start rehabilitation.