MIDDLESBROUGH striker Matthew Hoppe has returned to the UK, joining San Jose Earthquakes on loan.

The loan spell runs until the end of the MLS season, with the play-offs scheduled to conclude on December 9. The MLS side then have the option to make the deal permanent.

Hoppe links up with San Jose hoping to play more regular first team football having struggled to force his way into the Boro team since arriving 12 months ago.

The 22-year-old hasn't yet made a Championship start for Boro, with his six league appearances all coming from the bench.

He spent the second half of last season on loan at Hibs before returning to Boro but hasn't been able to play his way into Michael Carrick's plans.

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Earthquakes general manager Chris Leitch said: “Matthew is an exciting, young player who has already gotten a lot of experience in a number of different leagues.

“He has also played at the international level and was a big part of the U.S. Gold Cup victory in 2021. With his ability to play multiple positions, he is going to be an important addition to our attacking core.”

Hoppe signed a four-year contract when he joined Boro 12 months ago so will still have two years left on his deal on Teesside if Earthquakes opt against making the deal permanent.

Strengthening up-front is a priority for Boro in the transfer window, with the club looking to bring in a replacement for Cameron Archer after his loan spell in the second half of last season.