MIDDLESBROUGH boss Steve McClaren will switch his sights to Aston Villa midfielder Lee Hendrie unless he receives swift encouragement in his protracted attempt to lure Muzzy Izzet from Leicester.

McClaren refuses to give up the fight for 27-year-old Izzet, who rejected a £6m move to Teesside before the transfer deadline.

But the Boro manager's patience is being tested and West Ham's interest in the Londoner has complicated matters.

Turkish international Izzet, who began his career at Chelsea, decided to stick with Leicester until their relegation from the Premiership was confirmed.

But McClaren is now wary of being dragged into an auction as the Foxes, facing First Division life in a new multi-million pound stadium, look to push up the asking price.

McClaren has already made it clear that he is anxious to complete as much transfer business as possible before he takes up his England coaching role at the World Cup.

And Hendrie, cousin of former Boro striker John Hendrie, is a back-up target if a deal for Izzet fails to materialise.

England international Hendrie, rated at around £5m, isn't in the reckoning for Japan and South Korea, and is likely to leave Villa Park this summer as former national manager Graham Taylor launches a clear-out.

Birmingham-born Hendrie, 25 a week on Saturday, insists he wants to battle for his place. But his appearances under Taylor have been limited and there is little doubt he would welcome a fresh start.

McClaren is seeking midfield reinforcements despite ongoing contract talks with Paul Ince, Robbie Mustoe and Michael Debeve.

The Boro boss is equally determined to boost his side's firepower after admitting they haven't scored enough goals this season.

Derby striker Malcolm Christie, another player currently destined for Division One, is one of his top targets.

McClaren is also trying to reach agreement over a deal for on-loan Bradford schemer Benito Carbone, and is again being linked with a £6m move for Celta Vigo's South Africa striker Benni McCarthy.

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