Released defender moves on

Former Middlesbrough defender Stephen McManus has joined SPL side Motherwell on a one-year deal.

That follows the Scottish international’s recent release by the Teessiders upon the completion of his contract at the Riverside.

McManus joined Boro from Celtic in a £1.5m deal three years ago but struggled with injury and form at his new club. He managed ten appearances last season plus a further eleven on loan to Bristol City.

“I always had an idea then that I was going to come here; even though it was a hard decision given other clubs were interested,” McManus told BBC Scotland. “From the minute I came in the door for the first time, there was a real family atmosphere and that is what drew me to the club. I just can’t wait to get started, I will give it my best shot and we will see how it goes.”