DARLINGTON new boy Brian Close has spoken of his disappointment at failing to make the grade at Middlesbrough.

The 22-year-old joined Quakers on a free transfer last week after being told by Boro boss Steve McClaren that his contract would not be renewed in the summer.

The Teessiders' have agreed to pay the remainder of Close's current deal, which expires in July.

The Belfast-born midfielder was brought to England five years ago after impressing Boro scouts in a tournament in Northern Ireland.

Close ignored the overtures of several English clubs before opting for a move to Middlesbrough.

But despite coming through the youth and reserve-team ranks at the Riverside Stadium, Close has struggled to make the step up to the first-team, making just one substitute's appearance in last season's league cup defeat at Ipswich.

"I'd loved to have stayed at Middlesbrough but I wasn't getting the break there," said Close.

"I played one reserve game in three months, which wasn't enough.

"Everybody at Middlesbrough have been brilliant with me. I had a good five years there and hopefully I can go on to do well for Darlington."

Close, who made eight appearances on loan to Chesterfield last season, has already made an impact at the Reynolds Arena, impressing on his full debut in Tuesday night's win over Cheltenham.

The tough-tackling midfielder was drafted in as cover for rested skipper Neil Maddison.

However, Close may have to settle for a place on the bench for the visit of Cambridge on Saturday, with former Boro teammate Maddison likely to return.

But with ten games to go, Close will be looking to establish himself in the first-team in the hope of earning an extended deal.

"I'm here until July and hopefully if I do well I can stay beyond that," said Close.

"There's a good feeling at the club and the stadium is superb.

"The coaching staff at Middlesbrough spoke very highly of David (Hodgson) so I was very happy to come along, especially as I'll be able to stay in the North-East.

"I didn't particularly want to move to another area. I'm thankful for David for giving me the chance to prove myself here."

* Darlington reserves, beaten 2-1 by Sheffield United last night, host Hartlepool's second string on Wednesday, March 24, at the Reynolds Arena. A fortnight later, April 7, Newcastle Reserves are the visitors, with both games kicking off at 7pm.

* Second Division Oldham have announced the appointment of Brian Talbot as their new manager.

Talbot resigned as boss of Rushden this week after seven years in charge amid speculation that he topped the Latics' wanted list.

The 50-year-old, who started his managerial career at West Brom, transformed Diamonds' fortunes and led them from the Nationwide Conference into Division Two.

Talbot has signed a contract which will run until June 2007.

Read more about the Quakers here.