'Another Howson is hard to find' - Maddison

Former Middlesbrough midfielder Neil Maddison said that Jonny Howson will be "a big miss" after his departure from the club.

The defensive midfielder was not given a new deal after the conclusion of his contract last season, bringing an end to his eight-year tenure with the club.

"When Jonny was in the side, you felt more comfortable. When you were going through a bad run and he comes into the side, it all disappears. You seem to be a better side," Maddison told BBC Radio Tees.

"Those players are hard to find.

"I think he'll be sorely missed, certainly in terms of galvanising the team when they need to try and get that win or try to get back into the game. He was a perfect fit for the team."

As far as whether age was catching up to the veteran, Maddison added: "Even at the ripe old age of 37, I still think he can perform and he can fill in positions as well. Those players are important.

"I still felt he had a little bit to offer."

Listen to the full analysis of Jonny Howson's departure and more on BBC Sounds.