Middlesbrough boss Gordon Strachan can see closer ties developing with Northeast rivals Sunderland.

Strachan is looking forward to renewing acquaintances with his former Manchester United team-mate Steve Bruce - but over a cuppa rather than a pint!

"I get on well with Steve and I got on well with him when I was at Manchester United," Strachan said.

"He's a wonderful fella. He was a good kid at United - I enjoyed his company. As a footballer, yes you knew he was cut out for a good career, but I didn't realise he would be that good to be honest. But he's been absolutely terrific."

Asked if he was looking forward to a pint with Bruce, Strachan added: "I usually have a cup of tea rather than a pint, as you can tell by our physiques!''