Source: PA
Bates handed Boro captaincy
Matthew Bates will lead Middlesbrough out against Cardiff once again on Saturday after being named permanent captain by manager Tony Mowbray.
Bates, who celebrates his 24th birthday on Friday, skippered the side during Gary O'Neil's latest injury lay-off, but has now replaced the former Portsmouth midfielder as the club's figurehead.
Mowbray told Boro's official website, www.mfc.co.uk: "Having spoken to Matthew, he's someone I would like to give the responsibility to.
"He's had a lot of injuries, but he's from the area and he understands and supports the football club.
"I would like to think he's maturing into a footballer who can handle that burden, although having done it myself, I don't really consider captaining the club a burden.
"He's now captain of the team and the club and hopefully that can be a good experience for him."
