Halliday thrilled at opportunity

Versatile Andy Halliday is more than prepared to continue in defence if it means a regular starting place at Middlesbrough.

The 21-year-old was originally signed as an attacking forward by former manager Gordon Strachan a couple of years ago after netting fifteen times in thirty starts whilst a teenager at Scottish outfit Livingston.

But after finding restricted opportunities at the Riverside, Halliday has since discovered an opening in defence following the recent hamstring injury suffered by regular left-back George Friend. The Scot managed his first Championship start of the season in that position against Huddersfield Town earlier this week.

"George's boots are huge ones to fill," Halliday admitted to the Northernn Echo. "He's arguably been our best player this season. He was a huge miss. I have filled in and done OK.

"It's an awesome, awesome feeling to have been in the team," he continued. "When you are at a club like Middlesbrough it is about biding your time. I have been happy with the way I have been dealing with things this season. There have been lows but Tuesday was certainly a high."

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