Middlesbrough goalkeepers Brad Jones and Ross Turnbull are set to battle it out for the number one jersey at The Riverside next season.The pair have been backed by boss Gareth Southgate to fill the boots of Mark Schwarzer, who left the club in May for Premier League rivals Fulham.

Although Southgate has not ruled out dipping into the transfer market for a third keeper, he firmly believes in the quality of 26-year-old Jones and Turnbull, 23.

"I don't see anything around that would be proven at this level without paying a lot of money and if we're going to sign someone who's unproven at this level then I think our two would be a match for anybody," Southgate told the club's website.

"There may be a need to take a goalkeeper just for training purposes. But I feel Brad and Ross need a chance. I will be talking to them."

Southgate paid tribute to the long-serving Schwarzer, who he described as "a dedicated professional" and "a pleasure to work with".

"He never gave me a moment's trouble and has been a fantastic servant for the club over the 11 years he's been here," added Southgate.

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