Middlesbrough boss Gareth Southgate insisted that Mido still has a role to play with the team despite a disappointing first season at the Riverside. The Egyptian, who started brightly with Boro after joining last year, was then wretched by a series of injuries, the last of which required a hernia operation that ruled him out for the rest of the season. "We will have a new signing in Mido being fit really, he is not forgotten as far as we are concerned," Southgate told the Evening Gazette. Following the arrival of Brazilian hitman Afonso Alves and the fine form of striking duo Jeremie Aliadiere and Sanli Tuncay, speculation suggested that Mido could no longer be a key player. Moreover, Boro were reportedly believed to be chasing Lyon forward Fred, but Southgate is reluctant to make 'huge changes' next summer. "Last year, we ended up bringing in five or six players, maybe more," added the former England defender. "I don't think we need to make the widespread changes we made over the last couple of years. "We've got to get the best from the players we've got here and add quality where and when we can. I don't think huge change is needed to take us forward." Boro are almost certain of survival in the Premiership this season, as they lie 13th, seven points off the relegation zone.
