Middlesbrough boss Gareth Southgate says George Boateng remains a big part of his plans, despite using him only sparingly this season.

"George has been a terrific servant for the club. Everybody has looked at his situation and assumed that he wouldn't be involved but he still has a big part to play," said Southgate.

"His response to being left out of the side recently has been first class.

"He has still had a real positive influence around the place, his attitude to training has been good and he wants the team to do well."