Former Aston Villa defender reveals why he turned down Boro

Former Aston Villa defender Alan Hutton has revealed that he turned down the opportunity to sign for Boro in the summer.

There had been reports that Woodgate was keen on signing his former teammate and this was confirmed by the Scotland international.

Hutton, who has retired from football today, revealed this in an interview with Jim White.

The veteran right-back appears to be enjoying his time outside of football and spoke of how a deal was close in the summer.

"It was close. On one side I felt bad cause I knew Woodgate and Keane, they were desperate for me to go there," he said.

However, Hutton admitted that the thought of leaving his family for a full season of action was the reason he refused the offer.

"Leaving the family for the sake of one year in the Championship, you're constantly playing and you're away for the full week."

"Is it worth it? When I weighed it all up, it wasn't."

Hutton's decision has favoured the growth of Djed Spence as the teenager has emerged as one of the breakout stars this season.

The 19-year-old has been impressive in the right-back position and recently signed a long-term deal with the club.

Boro are currently on a poor run of form and are yet to win in nine matches in all competitions. They travel to Barnsley on Saturday as they seek vital there points.