'Premier League' written all over Hackney

PUNDIT SINGS HIS PRAISES

- By CRAIG JOHNS

MIDDLESBROUGH will do everything they can to keep Hayden Hackney next month, as Clinton Morrisson delivered a warning that many Premier League clubs will be following his excellent season closely ahead of the January transfer window.

Hackney was already enjoying a solid season as Boro made a fast start to the new campaign. But he's taken his game to another level since the arrival of Kim Hellberg, with the Swede's style of play helping the midfielder thrive.

With Hackney in excellent form this season, Morrison believes Premier League clubs could seriously consider the Boro midfielder next month though Boro are hoping to keep hold of their star man as they push for promotion to the top flight.

Though Hackney has only 18 months remaining on his contract, as a priority Boro wish to keep Hackney as they sit second in the Championship and push for promotion for the Premier League.