MIDDLESBROUGH fans have praised the Premiership side for going back to its roots after it revealed a new badge reflecting its 131-year history.

The crest replaces an emblem that was designed for the club's rebirth following liquidation in 1986. Supporters in the town were pleased to see the club had recognised its heritage.

"This shows the club has not forgotten its roots," said Michael Wardell, of Middlesbrough.

"It appeared as though the club had forgotten about the past. I'm sure the older fans will be delighted with the move."

Terri Harrison, 18, said: "The round one is the only one I have seen before, but this new one makes the club look a bit more prestigious - I think it is a great idea."

Rob Nichols, editor of Boro fanzine Fly Me To The Moon, said: "I welcome it because it is something that has been around for generations. Until they changed it, it was almost like life started in 1986."

Club chairman Steve Gibson said: "I've been pressing for the change of badge for some time. The 1986 badge suggested our history was far shorter than it really was. We should be proud of our history and that the club is one of the oldest, not just in England, but in the world.

"Our history before 1986 might not always have been covered in glory, but it is our history all the same and we should recognise that. The new badge will ensure that everyone in the football world knows how far back the club goes. We should all be proud of that."

Chief executive Keith Lamb said the rebirth of the club 21 years ago will not be erased from the club's psyche. He said: "The new badge better reflects the club's heritage and ambitions. We launched our old badge in 1986 on the back of the liquidation saga when the new club was keen to distance itself from the old Boro and some of the less-than-reputable people involved in it."