Walker signs new deal

Middlesbrough midfielder Josh Walker has signed a new contract which will keep him at the Riverside Stadium until 2011.

The 20-year-old, a graduate of the club’s academy, has made six senior appearances since the turn of the year with manager Gareth Southgate having to turn to his youngsters because of injuries and suspensions.

Born in Newcastle, central midfielder Walker made his senior debut as a substitute at Fulham in the final game of the 2005-06 season under former boss Steve McClaren.

The England Under-19 international has also had loan spells with Aberdeen and Bournemouth.

Walker becomes the third youngster to sign a new deal in recent weeks after Rhys Williams and Seb Hines.