REPUBLIC of Ireland full-back Curtis Fleming has celebrated his testimonial year with Middlesbrough by signing a two-year contract extension.

The 32-year-old, a £50,000 Lennie Lawrence recruit from Irish side St Patrick's Athletic in August 1991, has tied himself to Boro until the summer of 2003.

New Boro boss Steve McClaren said: "We're delighted Curtis has signed this new contract. He has obviously been a very loyal servant to the club.

"I know about Curtis - I've seen him play many times over the years and he has always been a very consistent performer.

"We need solid defenders like him because there are very few of them around and it's a great way to end his testimonial season."

Meanwhile, Boro will play First Division Preston North End at Deepdale in a testimonial match for Lee Cartwright on Wednesday, August 1 (7.45pm).

* Feyenoord midfielder Brett Emerton, tracked by Middlesbrough and Newcastle, struck twice as Australia took a vital step towards World Cup qualification with a 2-0 victory over New Zealand.

Manchester City firebrand Danny Tiatto, also linked with Newcastle, was sent off near the end of the first-leg play-off clash for a wild lunge at Maine Road teammate Chris Killen.

Boro midfielder Paul Okon and goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer played key roles in the Socceroos' win.

The second leg is at Stadium Australia on Sunday.

Read more about the Boro here.