Boro close in on Friend

Middlesbrough have had an undisclosed offer accepted for Doncaster defender George Friend.

But Doncaster manager Dean Saunders said a deal had not been completed and expected Boro to face competition for the player, who was linked with a move to Charlton last week. "If George goes I'll be really disappointed," Saunders told the press after Saturday's 3-3 friendly draw at Bradford Park Avenue. "He's a good man, he has a great attitude and he's a great athlete. But we have to cut our cloth accordingly and we've agreed a fee with Middlesbrough, although I'm still expecting more interest from other clubs." Friend, whose previous clubs include Exeter and Wolves, joined Doncaster on a free transfer two years ago.