NEIL WARNOCK has agreed a deal to remain as Middlesbrough's manager for next season.

Warnock's initial short-term deal was due to expire at the end of the current campaign.

However, after holding a meeting with Boro owner Steve Gibson yesterday, Warnock has agreed to remain in his post for the 2021-22 season.

The 72-year-old's long-term lieutenants, Kevin Blackwell and Ronnie Jepson, will also remain in their current roles.

A Middlesbrough statement said: "The club is delighted to announce that Neil Warnock has agreed a deal to remain as our manager for the 2021/22 season.

"The 72-year-old initially took over on a short-term basis last summer after Jonathan Woodgate was relieved of his duties as head coach, and he guided the club to Championship safety in the final match of his eight-game tenure.

"The Yorkshireman committed himself for the 2020/21 season and has presided over a transformation that has seen the team challenging for the Championship play-off place.

"He has repeatedly spoken of how he is enjoying his time on Teesside and also of his desire to win a record ninth promotion. The return of fans to the Riverside is another big attraction for the veteran of over 1500 games as a manager."