Southgate could turn to Tuncay

06 August 2009 15:17
Boro welcome Sheffield United to the Riverside as they begin their bid to make it back to the Barclays Premier League at the first attempt following their relegation last term. Turkish forward Tuncay was one of a number of players who many, including Southgate, assumed would be leaving Middlesbrough this summer. Accordingly, he has not been part of the team's pre-season programme, but Southgate said Tuncay may still face the Blades. He told www.mfc.co.uk: "I think there's a chance. "He's not been involved with any of the pre-season games, but I will certainly keep him in mind for team selection." He added: "I'm amazed he's still with us, I'm delighted he is, but I wouldn't expect him to be with us at the beginning of September." New signing Leroy Lita, who came close to joining the Blades, is lacking fitness while Jeremie Aliadiere has been ill, which could increase Tuncay's chances of a surprise start. Also doubtful are Gary O'Neil and Julio Arca. Southgate has been impressed with his player's attitude after the disappointment of last term. "We've got to win week after week to get where we want to get to," he said on Sky Sports News. "We've got to have that winning mentality. "The players have responded really well." Winger Kyel Reid will have added motivation to do well on his United debut, having turned down a move to Boro after leaving West Ham. He told the Sheffield Star: "They were one of the opportunities I had. Blackpool were interested in me too but, after speaking with my family and my agent, we all decided that coming here would be best for me. "I'm really excited about being a United player and can't wait to get started. "There are some real stand-out matches in this division and us against Boro is one of them. "Newcastle is another but we can't afford to lose sight of the fact that, no matter who the opposition is, they are all as important as each other. "It's an exciting division with some big clubs and names in it but hopefully we won't be in it for too long. "The aim of everyone here is to go up and get this club back where it belongs." Reid will battle with Keith Treacy for a place on the left wing.

Source: Team_Talk