GRAHAM LINKED WITH BORO JOB

58-year-old Venables was drafted in by Boro chairman Steve Gibson at the end of last year, as the Riverside outfit had sunk to the bottom of The Premiership under Bryan Robson.

The former Spurs and Barcelona manager, however, has had the desired affect and Boro's form has seen them virtually secure their top-flight status.

The Boro faithful are desperate for Venables to stay and carry on his good work, but reports are suggesting that 'El Tel' will turn his back on football management to take up the helm of ITV's Premiership coverage next season.

Out-of-work Graham is one of a number of leading managers that are being linked with the North East club, should they decide to look for a new boss, although technically Robson is still manager. 

Despite the fact that Robson is still at Boro, his demotion under Venables has his position seem somewhat untenable in the eyes of most onlookers.

Former Arsenal supremo Graham had an acrimonious departure from Tottenham earlier this year, making way for Glenn Hoddle, but he is still a man in demand and was also linked to Rangers recently.

It seems that Gibson may opt for a big-name, although Graham is not the only unemployed manger that is likely to put his hat into the ring.

Ex-England boss Kevin Keegan has also strongly been tipped in the North East as the man who could take-over, mainly due to the fact that he lives on Teesside and the lure of a big job with cash to spend is sure to appeal

Meanwhile, Boro have been linked with a move for Nantes on-loan playmaker Stephane Ziani.

The 28-year-old French ace is looking to move and The Premiership is likely to appeal.

Boro could very well see Ziani as a replacement for Christian Karembeu, should the former Real Madrid move to Paris Saint Germain in the summer.

Ziani is currently on loan at Nantes, from Le Championnat giants Bordeaux.