MIDDLESBROUGH defender Ben Gibson has extended his loan spell at League One side Tranmere Rovers until January 3.

The 19-year-old has started all eight of Tranmere's matches this term and helped Ronnie Moore's side climb to second in the table.

Gibson has made just one senior Boro appearance so far, as a sub against Coventry in April 2011.

However, during a loan spell last season, he helped York City win the FA Trophy and Blue Square Bet Premier play-off final, both at Wembley.

Earlier in the season he made 16 appearances and created a favourable impression with League Two Plymouth Argyle.