Strach Attack

We needed a big-name appointment in the wake of Gareth's dismissal, and Gordon Strachan is about as good as it could have been with our club where it is.

Strachan quit as Celtic manager after fours seasons in charge

There are a handful of Premier League chairmen who wouldn't hesitate in having Strach at the helm, despite his Celtic career fizzzling out last May.

When you're boss at one of the Old Firm, it ain't easy to win admirers. Trophies are expected rather than lauded.

But Strachan became only the third Celtic manager to guide them to a trio of consecutive SPL titles in 2007, while his European exploits - one home defeat in four seasons, that to Barcelona - weren't shabby either.

So the scores of Boro fans who bayed for Southgate's blood now have what they wanted - an experienced boss. That's promotion secured, then.