Jonathan Woodgate is set to join up with the Boro squad in Marbella after agreeing a deal that will see him be a part of Aitor Karanka's squad once again next season.





The 35-year-old, who has made over 100 appearances for the club in two spells, looked set to retire at the end of last season, but Boro Head Coach has made no secret of his admiration for the defender and the experience he brings to the dressing room.





"Woody will be important in the changing room," said Karanka.





"I really appreciated his reaction after hearing of Alex Baptiste's injury last week, and he is ready to come back.





"He knows his role will be a bit different. He wants to come here to help us get promotion.





"I said last season and I'll say it again, he can be very important because he is a good person and a good lad.





"He was thinking about retiring 10 months ago and now he wants to help us. We are close to being a family here, and we're pleased to say 'welcome back Woody.'"





Woodgate, who made nine appearances last season and scored a decisive goal at Blackpool, brings added experience to the Boro dressing room as the club gears up for another assault on the Sky Bet Championship.



