Woodgate returns to hometown club Middlesbrough

Jonathan Woodgate has returned to his hometown club Middlesbrough on a free transfer.

The defender has signed a three year contract with the Championship club.
Woodgate, 32, made 17 appearances for Premier League side Stoke last season, but found his opportunities limited towards the end of the season.

The Middlesbrough born player admits that the draw of helping Middlesbrough back to the Premier League was the reason behind his move.

He told Middlesbrough`s official site: “The pull of helping Boro back in the Premier League is very strong for me,

“Tony Mowbray explained his plans for next season and how he is building a team that wants to get back in the Premier League as soon as possible.

“I want to be part of that and if we can achieve promotion in my time here it will be a fantastic way to end my career.”

The former England international has had spells at Leeds United, Newcastle United, Real Madrid, Middlesbrough and Tottenham in his career, accumulating around £36 million in transfer fees.