Matthew Bates has signed a three-year Middlesbrough contract extension to end speculation over his future.

The 22-year-old, who has been linked with Wolves, Wigan, West Ham and Fulham since Boro's relegation from the Premier League, has committed himself to the club until 2012.

That will come as a huge boost to manager Gareth Southgate, who used him both at the back and in central midfield following his return from a third cruciate ligament operation last season.