Sir Bobby predicts warm welcome for Woody

Last updated : 05 March 2003 By Martyn Elliott

"I don't think he'll get too much stick from the Middlesbrough supporters," claimed the manager.

"They'll be pleased to see him back in the North-East and in a black-and-white shirt. If that's not the case it won't faze Woody - he's been through so much in the last few years that he can cope with most things. If there are a few unhappy fans then so be it but they had the chance to buy Jonathan, just as we did."

As there are few things more likely to upset a Smoggie than one of their own signing for ‘The Skunks’, Woody’s view is perhaps more realistic.

"There is no doubt in my mind that I might get a bad reception going down there as a Middlesbrough lad having joined Newcastle United," he admitted.

Another win at one of our luckier grounds would soon shut the detractors up.