Source: Northern_Echo
Smith in, Boyd out as Boro ring the changes
AFTER frantic early-morning talks, Middlesbrough have signed Nottingham Forest reserve goalkeeper Paul Smith on loan until the end of the season.[LNB] The deal sees misfiring Boro striker Kris Boyd move in the opposite direction to the City Ground.[LNB] With Jason Steele and Danny Coyne both injured, Boro boss Tony Mowbray spent all weekend desperately trying to sign an experienced keeper ahead of tonight's game with Derby.[LNB] He all but admitted defeat yesterday evening, but early discussions this morning paved the way for Smith's arrival.[LNB] The keeper, who will wear the number 13 shirt, will go straight into the squad for tonight's relegation battle with the Rams.[LNB] Smith, 31, has not made a senior appearance since last May, but boasts more than 120 career appearances for Forest.[LNB] Mowbray said: "Smith has plenty of experience at this level and he has played in the Premier League too.[LNB] "We clearly needed a goalkeeper, and he brings us experience and a steady pair of hands."[LNB] Boyd's departure is hardly a surprise given Mowbray's reluctance to play the former Rangers striker, who was signed amid much fanfare by Gordon Strachan last summer. It is likely that Boro are continuing to pay a significant proportion of Boyd's wages, which are understood to be more than £30,000-a-week.[LNB] Mowbray added: "It's a good deal for the club and it's a good deal for the player who will hopefully get some game time and build his confidence back up."[LNB]
