Southgate in Boro pledge

Manager wants long-term stay

Last updated: 23rd July 2008

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Southgate: Staying put

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Middlesbrough manager Gareth Southgate has insisted he has no intentions of using the club as a stepping stone in his career.

Southgate is approaching his third year as Boro boss and he is now emerging as one of the most highly regarded young managers in the English game.

The former England international stepped into the Boro hot-seat straight from playing and many doubted whether he could make the transition so quickly but he has maintained Boro's Premier League status and is looking for them to push for a top-half finish.

"I'm thinking long-term, I'm not using this as a stepping stone for something else," he said.

"If I'm here in five years then brilliant, because that means we're doing it right."

New deal

Meanwhile, the club have confirmed that Richard Smallwood has been handed his first professional contract.

The highly-rated 17-year-old has been handed a three-year deal.

"It is a wonderful achievement for Richie," Academy manager Dave Parnaby said.

"He is a smashing lad who has worked hard to get to where he is now.

"It's an encouraging start to Richard's career. He is a clever player and has

the potential to go far in the game - but the hard work starts now."

Prem 08/09 Top N East Club Win Outright: Middlesboro 11/8