New boy sets after 'win-win'

MATT Targett says he’s joined Middlesbrough to play games and win promotion - describing the chance to help the club and his own career as “win-win”.

- By CRAIG JOHNS

MATT Targett says he’s joined Middlesbrough to play games and win promotion - describing the chance to help the club and his own career as “win-win”.

Targett made the short move from Newcastle United to Boro last week, on loan for the rest of the season, and made a positive first impression, coming off the bench at halftime and setting up the winning goal in his debut against Sheffield United. It follows two difficult years at St James’ Park in which he made only 12 appearances.

Boro made their move for Targett when it became apparent he would be available, having previously targeted Max Arftsen from Columbus Crew to fill the gap at left wing-back in their side.

With the MLS side unwilling to sell this summer, however, Boro considered a number of options before deciding on Targett, who has spent the entirety of his career in the Premier League, but for one half-season at Fulham in 2018 which ended in promotion.

In a sit-down interview with regional media outlets after signing, Targett said: “I’m really happy to be here. I think it was about a week in the making. Once I found out, I just wanted to get it done as soon as possible. The desire to come here and play was massive. It’s been a couple of years without regular football. Once Boro came up, I thought it was the right opportunity.