Middlesbrough have today announced the signing of Southampton's Sam McQueen, with the left-sided player joining the club on a season-long loan.

The 23-year-old came through the ranks at Saints, his boyhood club, and has made just under 30 appearances for them in the past few years.

And, they were notable appearances too, with his first senior start coming against Inter Milan in the San Siro for a Europa League tie.

However, with Matt Targett and England international Ryan Bertrand in front of him at Southampton, regular game time has always been hard to come by at St. Mary's.

Therefore, a loan move was expected and Boro confirmed on their official website that McQueen has signed up for the remainder of the campaign.

He will provide boss Tony Pulis with a different option down the left hand-side, with his attacking instincts making him an ideal candidate for the wing-back role in Boro's system.

Yet, he could also play as a full-back or as a wide midfielder if necessary, should Pulis decide to alter the formation.

He could go straight into the squad for tomorrow's top-of-the-table clash against Leeds United.

The Verdict

This is a very good signing by Middlesbrough, as McQueen has always looked good when playing for Southampton.

His problem is that Targett and Bertrand are also at the club and they are two fantastic players.

That's why he needs the move and he will provide George Friend with real competition and will probably overtake him as the left wing-back this season.

Thoughts, Boro fans? Let us know in the comments below.

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