Middlesbrough have confirmed that striker Matthew Hoppe has joined Hibernian on loan for the rest of the season.

The USA international was brought to the club in the summer under former boss Chris Wilder but it's fair to say that he hasn't made the impact that many hoped, with the 21-year-old barely featuring this season.

Opportunities have been hard to come by for Hoppe under Michael Carrick, so it's been decided that a temporary move away is best for the development of the attacker.

And, it was announced this evening that the player will spend the rest of the campaign in the Scottish top-flight with Hibs as he looks to help them to a top six finish.

With Cameron Archer having been brought in to go with the likes of the in-form Chuba Akpom, Matt Crooks and Marcus Forss, Carrick clearly feels they are well-stocked for options up top for the run-in as Boro chase a return to the Premier League this season.

Hoppe could make his debut for Hibs in the weekend game at St. Mirren.

The verdict

This seems like a sensible move for all parties as Hoppe needs to be playing regularly and he should get plenty of opportunities at Hibs.

Things haven't gone as he would've wanted at Boro but it's important to remember that the former Schalke man is still only 21, so he has plenty of time to develop and improve as a player.

So, now this is his chance to show what he can do as he looks to return in the summer to make a mark on Teesside.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.