Middlesbrough teenage striker set for loan spell

Middlesbrough manager Jonathan Woodgate has revealed that highly-rated youngster Stephen Walker is set to move on loan in January.

Woodgate revealed this in his pre-match conference ahead of the FA Cup replay against Tottenham.

"Stephen Walker is available to go on loan," he said.

He further gave instances of two other young players in Marcus Browne and Marc Bola who both left on loan moves last week.

"We need him to go and play games like with Browne and Bola, I think it's important that he goes out and plays games in a man's environment."

Walker is regarded as one of the top academy players at the club and was promoted to the first team this season.

He has so far featured seven times this season in the league, but the coaching staff believe he needs regular football.

Boro have strengthened their attack in the transfer window with the addition of Patrick Roberts and Lukas Nmecha.

The new signings are joined by Ashley Fletcher, Rudy Gestede and Britt Assombalonga.

These options in attack mean that Walker has fewer chances in the first team and a loan move would be beneficial to his progress.

It is understood that several clubs from the lower ranks have shown interest in the 19-year-old forward.