S. McClaren extended contract with "Middlesbrough" © EuroFootball.com

The head coach Steve McClaren has extended his contract with the club until 2009.

As negotiations began, S. McClaren's contract became the subject of speculation, with his future often linked to the English national team or Manchester United. In the English national team, he works as an assistant to head coach Sven-Goran Eriksson and has previously been Sir Alex Ferguson's assistant at Old Trafford.

"I intend to win numerous trophies with this team. So I never even considered leaving," said the coach.

The new contract silenced talks of his departure, and even if it were to happen, "Boro" ensured a substantial compensation.

Steve McClaren led Middlesbrough to the first place in the league cup in 2004 and helped the club qualify for the UEFA Cup. Last year, the team under the guidance of the 44-year-old coach achieved the highest position in the club's history in the Premier League - 7th place.

"I never doubted the new contract. I have never felt as good in this club as I do now, but people keep asking if I have signed a new contract. So now I can firmly answer yes. Extending the contract means that I will be able to continue successfully doing what we have been doing in recent years and lead 'Boro' in the next few seasons," said S. McClaren.