Middlesbrough FC news: Jonathan Woodgate replaces new Newcastle coach Graeme Jones at Bournemouth plus Preston boss explains Darnell Fisher exit

The 41-year-old has been out of work since leaving Boro in June and will now work alongside Cherries boss Jason Tindall at the Vitality Stadium.

Woodgate will replace Graeme Jones in his new role after the latter joined Newcastle’s coaching staff last week.

Boro will face the Cherries, who are sixth in the Championship, at the Vitality Stadium on April 2.

Woodgate posted on his Instagram page: “New chapter started today at @officialafcb. Great to be back on the training ground at a fantastic club and looking forward to what the coming weeks will bring. Thanks everyone for the warm welcome and for all the good wishes.”

Preston boss explains Fisher departure

Preston boss Alex Neil has praised new Boro signing Darnell Fisher after allowing the full-back to move to the Riverside.

Fisher’s Preston contract was set to expire in the summer, meaning the 26-year-old was able to sign for the Teessiders on a two-and-a-half-year deal last week.

"Darnell had been great here, he really had,” said Neil.

"As things were developing, we had a lot of bodies coming in, other lads' with their contracts we were trying to resolve.

"And Darnell was one that when the window shut we were probably going to have a look at a little bit closer.

"Middlesbrough then came in with a bid and I think the club just felt it was a good bid; we have Alan (Browne) who has been doing really well there.

"But listen, I've always got on great with D, he's a good lad and I'm sure he'll do great for Middlesbrough.”

It’s strange playing against Boro says Gibson

Finally, Norwich defender Ben Gibson says it will always be strange playing against his hometown club Middlesbrough, following Saturday’s goalless draw at Carrow Road.

The centre-back, who came through the academy at Boro and helped the club win Championship promotion in 2016, posted on Instagram after the match: “Will always be a strange day playing against Boro. Hopefully both of us can go on to achieve success this season.”

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