MIDDLESBORO manager Gareth Southgate is chasing centre-back Bobo Balde in a bid to strengthen his championship promotion challenge. The 33 year old Guinea international quit Celtic last season.

MIDDLESBORO manager Gareth Southgate is chasing centre-back Bobo Balde in a bid to strengthen his championship promotion challenge.

The 33 year old Guinea international quit Celtic last season. The player had trials with Birmingham City and Wolverhampton Wonderers, however, was declined a contract after Mick McCarthy did not consider the player to have strong enough fitness and stamina levels.

By James Tzanoudakis