MIDDLESBROUGH have delayed the confirmation of their new managerial appointment until after the weekend.

Boro officials had been expected to confirm Gordon Strachan as Gareth Southgate's replacement later this afternoon, but the Teessiders will now remain silent until Monday.

The cause of the delay is understood to be a desire not to overshadow the squad's preparations for tomorrow's away game at Preston.

First-team coach Colin Cooper will take caretaker charge of the side at Deepdale, with assistance from coach Steve Agnew and goalkeeping coach Stephen Pears, and chairman Steve Gibson does not want any distractions from a game that could see Boro go to the top of the Championship table.

** FOR MORE MIDDLESBROUGH NEWS READ TOMORROW'S NORTHERN ECHO **