Jonathan Woodgate has refused to rule out a move for former Middlesbrough man Ben Gibson this month.

The 27-year-old is a reported target for the Teessiders after growing frustrated at the lack of first team opportunities with Burnley.

Gibson has made just eight appearances in 18 months since arriving at Turf Moor, leading to speculation that he could be looking for an escape route from the Lancashire club.

Middlesbrough are keen to sign defensive reinforcements after injuries to Dael Fry, Daniel Ayala, Ryan Shotton and George Friend, and while the latter two are closing in on a return, Woodgate did little to quell speculation about a move for the former club captain.

Speaking after the game with Birmingham City, Woodgate said: "Could it be Ben Gibson? Who knows? It could be anyone.

"Have I spoken to Ben about signing? Not at the minute. Ben Gibson’s a good player, but there’s an awful lot of good players in the league. Would he be open to coming back? I’m not sure on that one. But he’s a Boro lad isn’t he?"

Woodgate added: "I expect one or two players in.

"Whether they’ll both be defenders, I’m not sure about that. But I’d expect one or two with the injuries, although hopefully they’re not too serious. Fingers crossed they’re not because Patrick (Roberts) is going to be a really good player for us.

"You can see how good he is. I don’t want to put too much pressure on him but sometimes I can’t help it because he’s that good.”

Can you remember these former Middlesbrough strikers? Let's find out!

 

The verdict

What a move this would be for Middlesbrough.

The current injury crisis means that Jonathan Woodgate is desperate for defensive reinforcements and Ben Gibson would certainly tick the boxes.

After coming through the academy, Gibson established himself as a fans' favourite at the Riverside Stadium as he led the team through one of their most successful periods in recent memory under Aitor Karanka.

Few could begrudge him a move to the Premier League, but with that not working out it makes sense for Middlesbrough to try and bring him back.

It could be a complicated deal to get done, but what a piece of business it would be.