Former West Brom boss Tony Pulis confirmed as Middlesbrough manager

Boro chairman Steve Gibson is known to be a huge fan of Welshman and wasted no time to appoint Gary Monk's successor after the 38-year-old was surprisingly given his marching orders following the 2-1 win at Sheffield Wednesday three days ago.

“I wanted a challenge - a real challenge - and this reminds me so much of Stoke when I went there with Peter Coates," said Pulis.

"Steve Gibson is a football man who understands the game. I have great respect for him as a person and an owner.

“I really am looking forward to this. The immediate challenge is finding out about the football club and as a team we have to get as many points as can, as quickly as we can.

“I wanted to come at this time because we have so many games in a short space of time, and I can assess everything.”

Chairman Gibson said: “We’re delighted to appoint Tony as our new manager. His experience and knowledge speaks for itself and he has a tremendous track record.

“We’re excited by this appointment and by what Tony can bring to this football club. There was strong interest from two other clubs, and we’re delighted Tony has decided to join us.

“There’s no disguising that 2017 has not been a happy year for any of us, but we’ve refocused and we’re looking forward to the future.”

Pulis will be at the Riverside today to watch his new team in action as Boro face Bolton Wanderers.

His first game in charge will be the crucial home clash with Aston Villa on December 30.

The ex-Baggies boss was given his marching orders following last month's 4-0 home defeat to Chelsea.

Alan Pardew was subsequently appointed and is still searching for his first win in charge as Albion worryingly sit in 19th, just one point off the bottom.