Embattled Southgate gets vote of confidence from chairman

Middlesbrough chairman Steve Gibson insists sacking Gareth Southgate would solve nothing as he attempts to drag the club out of deep relegation trouble.

Gibson today gave the under-pressure manager his full backing in the face of mounting frustration over the club's plight.

The Boro chairman told the club's official website, www.mfc.co.uk: "I have spoken with a lot of fans over the last few weeks and they ask me about Gareth Southgate.

"But the magic wand in our situation isn't sacking Gareth Southgate.

"Of course, everybody has their opinion in football and I understand the frustration of the fans.

"I have always said that we have a knowledgeable crowd at Middlesbrough and you have to respect that.

"I take on board the views of the fans because I care as much as they do. But if I was to sack Gareth Southgate at this stage, how would it help the situation?"