AITOR KARANKA has dedicated Middlesbrough’s 2-0 win at Huddersfield Town to commentator Ali Brownlee, who has been diagnosed with bowel cancer.

The popular BBC Tees broadcaster, who presents the breakfast show as well as covering Middlesbrough games home and away, has been off the airwaves in recent weeks after falling ill and is about to undergo treatment.

Boro’s 3,800 fans sang “There’s only one Ali Brownlee” and “Ali Brownlee, he’s one of our own” during the Teessiders’ 2-0 win at the John Smith’s Stadium and Karanka took the time to pay tribute to the Voice of the Boro in his post-match press conference.

Huddersfield 0 Middlesbrough 2 - Match Report

“I want to dedicate this game to a good friend who is not in a good moment, he’s in our minds, and that is Ali, and I am sure he is going to be back with us soon,” said Karanka.

“For that reason I want to dedicate that win to him.”

Writing on Twitter, Brownlee responded: "What can I say?Few times have I been reduced to tears but the support from the Boro fans today has been so emotional for me . Thank you."