Schwarzer backs Boro youth
10 Jul 2008 - 08:41:51
Former Middlesbrough goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer believes the future is bright for the Teessiders with two highly-rated youngsters competing to step into his shoes.
The experienced Australia international opted to join Fulham rather than sign a new contract at the Riverside Stadium and moved to the London club on a free transfer last month.
But Schwarzer has allayed fears that his youthful former back-up keepers Ross Turnbull and Brad Jones are not ready to become the number one choice at the north-east club this year.
Manager Gareth Southgate has already suggested he is not seeking a new keeper despite Turnbull and Jones sharing just 15 Premier League appearances between them.
"Ross and Brad have performed very well when they've had opportunities and it stands the club in good stead for the future," said Schwarzer.
"I know Brad well from the Socceroos. He's pretty laid back but he is very serious about his goalkeeping.
"Ross is a bit younger but he's a good listener and wants to learn. He is a big lad but agile with it and with his size he commands the area very well.
"It's very tight between them but either way Middlesbrough's future looks bright."