Middlesbrough defender Emanuel Pogatetz has denied quotes attributed to him about quitting the club if they're relegated.

"Everyone knows how much I love playing for Middlesbrough and I am 100 percent committed to helping us stay up this season," he told the club's official website.

"It really hurt me when I read what had been written about me in England this week. I am horrified that anyone could question my loyalty.

"I badly want to continue my career here and I will be doing everything in my power to help us stay in The Premier League.

"The scenario I am hoping for is that not only Middlesbrough stay up but that I can agree an extension to my contract with the club."

He added: "My remarks have been misinterpreted because right now I am not looking any further than the next eight games."