Middlesbrough FC news an transfer rumours: Paddy McNair reveals thoughts on Boro role as Sheffield United are linked with striker

The Northern Ireland international has predominantly played at the back for the Teessiders this season but has been moved back into midfield recently.

McNair is preparing for his county’s upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Italy and Bulgaria and says he’s enjoying his football under Boro boss Neil Warnock.

“Yes, I've seen a few things he has said in the press, he has sort of made that clear," McNair told the BBC.

"He starts me every single week and that is the main thing, whether it's at centre-back or midfield I honestly don't mind, as long as I'm playing.

“Against Swansea recently I played the first 60 minutes in midfield and then dropped into the back three."

Sheffield United linked with Fletcher

Middlesbrough striker Ashley Fletcher has been linked with Sheffield United.

The 25-year-old will be out of contract at the end of the season and, despite being offered a new deal with Boro, is waiting until the summer to assess his options.

According to Football League World, the Blades are keen on the striker and will look to make a move for the forward if he becomes available.

Although relegation hasn’t been confirmed, Sheffield United are preparing to return to the Championship next season after being cut adrift at the bottom of the Premier League.

It’s therefore been claimed that Fletcher could be targeted as the Blades look to return to the top flight.

Alex Neil fined for red card

Finally, former Preston boss Alex Neil has been fined £2,000 after admitting a FA charge of improper conduct during a match against Middlesbrough.

Neil was sent off at half-time during the match at the Riverside after a verbal exchange with referee Oliver Langford about a red card shown to Alan Browne.

Boro won the match 2-0 after an Jordan Storey own goal and Marcus Tavernier header.

Neil has since been sacked by Preston after a run of just one win in nine games which has left them 16th in the Championship table.

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