Middlesbrough have headed off the prospect of losing Matthew Bates by tying the defender to a new three-year deal.
The 22-year-old, who is equally comfortable in midfield, has been linked with a host of clubs since Boro’s relegation to The Championship, but he seems keen to aid the Teessiders in their bid to bounce back.
Bates hinted recently his head could be turned by an offer from The Premier League, with Everton, Fulham, West Ham, Wigan and Wolves thought to be interested, but Boro have persuaded him to stay on.
"We are delighted Matthew has decided to commit his future to Middlesbrough,” said Boro chief executive Keith Lamb.
Bates had a fine season last term, making 18 starts, to prove the three serious knee injuries that threatened his career are behind him.