Tuesday Jul 04 2006 12:31
Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink's Middlesbrough career is over after boss Gareth Southgate confirmed that the striker will not be offered a new contract at the Riverside Stadium.
The 34-year-old moved to Teesside two years ago and scored 23 goals in 58 Boro appearances but will not be extending his time with the club.
"I've spoken to Jimmy and explained to him that we're not going to renew his contract," Southgate told Boro's official website.
"It was a very difficult decision to make because he has done an excellent job for us. I have to make some tough decisions in this job and this one certainly wasn't easy, but I have to do what I think is right for the club.
"Jimmy's a good player and I'm sure he will score goals for somebody. But I've got excellent striking options here and feel we really need to strengthen in other positions that have to take priority.
"He scored some very important goals for us over the last two seasons, helping to get us into Europe in the first place and then playing a big part in our run to the UEFA Cup final.
"Jimmy was naturally disappointed with the decision but I'm sure he'll move on to another challenge.
"I got on very well with Jimmy because he is a real character, so I wish him well wherever he decides to go next. I'm sure Boro fans will retain fond memories of him too."
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