Middlesbrough FC

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• Manager:Tony Mowbray

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Southgate: Mido is staying

28 Aug 2008 - 10:01:48

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Middlesbrough manager Gareth Southgate insists Mido will remain at the Riverside Stadium despite reported interest from Wigan Athletic.

The 25-year-old Egypt striker has scored three goals in his first three games this year following his return from long-term injury last season.

Mido has started both of Boro's Premier League games this term on the bench which has led to reports that the former Spurs striker is unhappy on Teesside.

However, Southgate is confident the nomadic striker, who started just eight league games during an injury-ravaged first season with the club, will remain in the north east.

"Mido enjoys it here," he said. "The only thing he wants is to play football and he wants to be first choice, but he's also aware no club can guarantee him that.

"The reason he joined is he believes in what we're trying to do here and I think he can still play a big part in that.

"He's a big crowd favourite despite all the difficulties he had last season.

"He's a good player and we want those here. He's a talent and you want all your players to fulfil their talent.

"It's time he had a more settled period in his career and was at a club for a bit longer."