Middlesbrough manager Aitor Karanka has revealed that Jonathan Woodgate is contemplating retirement.

The 35-year old centre-back has been told that he will not be part of Boro's squad next season and could now move into a coaching role at the Riverside Stadium.

The injury-prone Woodgate, who joined Boro from Stoke City in 2012, managed just nine appearances for the Teesside club last season.

Karanka said: "I was speaking with him and the chairman is speaking with him. It's about finding the best option for us and for Woody. "Now, we're focused on the new players, but we all know how important Woody is for the club."

Woodgate, who was ravaged by injuries throughout his career, made eight appearances for England while chalking up 387 matches for Leeds United, Newcastle United, Real Madrid, Tottenham, Stoke and Boro since making his debut in 1998.