BRYANT BILONGO has left Middlesbrough to join National League side Ebbsfleet on loan for the remainder of the season.

The 22-year-old left-back joined Boro from Kingstonian two years ago, and has featured in a number of first-team squads this season.

He was on the bench for last week's Carabao Cup semi-final second-leg defeat at Chelsea, but has not really been able to break into Michael Carrick's first team.

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While Alex Bangura is facing a long-term absence because of injury, Boro have brought in Luke Thomas to compete with Lukas Engel for a starting spot at left-back.

That was always going to limit Bilongo's opportunities, so the youngster, who has made eight appearances at Under-21 level this season, is heading to Ebbsfleet, who are currently battling against relegation in 21st position in the National League table.