McNair to leave Middlesbrough after six years

Paddy McNair played 219 games in a six-year stay at Middlesbrough

Paddy McNair is to leave Middlesbrough after six years at the club, with his contract up this summer.

The Northern Ireland defender has not been offered a new deal and will become a free agent.

McNair, 29, played 219 games for the Teesside club after joining from Sunderland in 2018 and scored 14 goals.

His last appearance for Boro came in a goalless draw with Blackburn Rovers in March.

"After six years and 219 appearances, my time at Middlesbrough has come to an end," he posted on Instagram.

McNair, who has won 69 caps for Northern Ireland, came through the ranks at Manchester United and was given his first-team debut in 2014 by Louis van Gaal.

Two years later, he departed for the Stadium of Light before swapping Wearside for Teesside with his switch to Boro.

He was the club's Player of the Year in 2020-21, but departs after an injury-hit campaign.

"Big thank you to all of the players, staff and the fans for the support throughout the years," he said. "Looking forward to the next chapter."