Boro have no keeper plans
15 Jun 2008 - 15:09:09
Middlesbrough manager Gareth Southgate is ready to hand youth its chance after revealing he has no plans to sign an experienced goalkeeper for the new season.
Southgate is happy to let Brad Jones and Ross Turnbull fight it out for the number one jersey at the Riverside Stadium, following Mark Schwarzer's decision to leave on a free transfer.
The veteran Australia international opted to reject a new contract and join Fulham earlier in the month.
But, despite the lack of an experienced keeper on his books, Southgate is not looking to delve into the transfer market.
"I don't see anything around that would be proven at this level without paying a lot of money.
"And, if we're going to sign someone who's unproven at this level, then I think our two would be a match for anybody," he told the club's official website.
"We offered Mark a new contract because we felt that his experience would be a help around the place.
"But all the time we were very conscious that we have got two very good young goalkeepers who need an opportunity.
"We have Jason Steele coming through as well. But I feel Brad and Ross need a chance. I will be talking to them."
Meanwhile, Southgate has rubbished fresh reports that Stewart Downing could leave Teesside this summer.
The England winger was strongly linked with moves to Tottenham and Everton before signing a new five-year contract with his hometown club in February.
"We have to accept there will be speculation about our players and, if they're the quality of Stewart and have had the sort of season he has, that's inevitable," admitted Southgate.
"Stewart knows exactly what I want to try and achieve here and, as far as we are concerned, he's not for sale.
"I fought long and hard to keep him and get him on a new contract during the course of last season and I think we saw an increased maturity in his performances towards the end."