Burnley release revealing statement concerning Ben Gibson as centre-back returns to Middlesbrough for training

The 27-year-old centre-back has made just one Premier League appearance since leaving Boro in the summer of 2018 and is keen to leave Turf Moor due to his lack of game time.

Several clubs, including Boro, were interested in Gibson during last month’s January transfer window yet the Clarets were reluctant to let him go.

Premier League side Watford saw a bid rejected for the centre-back while Championship clubs Fulham and Huddersfield were linked with the player.

It was revealed earlier today that Gibson was training with Boro despite still being contracted to Burnley.

The Clarets have since released the following statement: “Following reports in the national press, Burnley Football Club can confirm they have given Ben Gibson permission to train with Middlesbrough Football Club.

"The defender made it clear, in the weeks leading up to the end of the January transfer window, that he wanted to leave Turf Moor to seek regular first team football.

"Unfortunately for the player, the club did not receive an offer it felt was acceptable and he remains contracted to the club.

"The club will not be making any further comment on this matter."

Gibson remains under contract at Turf Moor until 2022, and is understood to have a strong relationship with Boro boss Jonathan Woodgate.

Woodgate and Gibson were part of the squad which helped the Teessiders win promotion to the Premier League in 2016.