Bristol City sign defender Matthew Bates on short term deal

Matthew Bates: Hoping to revive his career

Bristol City have secured the services of former Middlesbrough defender Matthew Bates on a two-month deal.

The 25-year-old free agent will help to strengthen to the club's defence, penning a deal until 16 January on the back of a successful spell training at Ashton Gate.

Manager Derek McInnes said: "He's proved his fitness and is a quality addition to our squad.

"He's had a poor time with injuries but has demonstrated the strength to come back on each occasion.

"We were more than happy to take a look at somebody with his quality and he has shown his fitness, including playing in a practice match in the week.

"He offers us a good option and is a good person too. It's a low-risk deal until mid-January, which gives him the opportunity to stake a claim for an extended stay if all goes well."

It is a big boost for the centre-half, FA Youth Cup winner with Boro in 2004, who featured for his hometown club over 100 times in a six-year period.