McClaren eyes quick deal

Middlesbrough manager Steve McClaren is looking to make a move into the transfer market before he joins up with England for Euro 2004.

McClaren is joining England for the duration of the tournament as temporary replacement for Brian Kidd - who is recovering from surgery and cannot travel.

However, McClaren hopes to do some business with Boro before leaving.

"It's going to be a very busy summer, but I'm looking forward to it," said McClaren.

"I was going to the Championships anyway. Now I'll just be a bit closer to the action.

"But we have already been working very hard towards improving the Middlesbrough squad for next season and this work will go on.

"We know what we want to do and we need to bring in the first new signing as soon as possible."

Meanwhile, the Teesside club have confirmed their retained list for the news season and have axed highly rated full back David Murphy.

Murphy burst on to the first team scene in 2001 when he scored on his debut in the League Cup against Northampton.

The Hartlepool-born youngster went on to make 15 more appearances for Steve McClaren's side - but his progress has been hampered by injuries and Boro have decided to let him go.

The other releases are goalkeeper Sam Russell, defender Phil Gulliver and striker Craig Dove.

"The youth team has been successful and we're looking to push them through next year," explained McClaren.

"These players wouldn't have had a chance here next year and I want to make sure they can further their careers elsewhere.

"Releasing players is the toughest part of the job.

"You don't like to disappoint anybody, but the players have taken it well, we've looked after them while they've been here and we'll look after them until they get another club.

"Life goes, on, that's football and we're looking to the next generation."