Ryan Giggs on shortlist for Boro job – report

Ryan Giggs: Looks concerned

Former Manchester United star Ryan Giggs is on the shortlist to become the next manager of Middlesbrough, according to a report.

An exclusive in The Sun claims Giggs, 43, who left his position as assistant manager at Old Trafford last summer is believed to be on a shortlist of managers that have been drawn up by Boro chairman Steve Gibson,

Steve Agnew is the currently head coach until the end of the season after he was appointed to replace Aitor Karanka in March.

Gibson has revealed his admiration for Agnew and has labelled him a “deep thinker”, but his poor record to date has seen the Boro moneyman explore other options.

Agnew has managed just one victory, three draws and four losses from his eight games in charge, which has seen Boro all but relegated.

The reports claims “Giggs is right up among the leading contenders for the role, although no contact has yet been made”.

However, Gibson does have a track record of handing some big names their first go at management.

He gave Bryan Robson his first shot at management and was rewarded with two promotions and three cup final appearances, while he also appointed Steve McClaren who won the League Cup back and who reached the UEFA Cup final.

Steve Gibson: Owner rejects offer for club

Gibson is also widely regarded to be one of the most loyal and respected chairman in the country and if Giggs is looking to get back into the game then Teesside would be a good fit.

Giggs was is the running to replace Bob Bradley at Swansea at the turn of the year, but they opted for former Ral Madrid coach Paul Clement.

Giggs claimed he had rejected the opportunity because “their ambitions did not really match mine”, while other reports claimed Giggs’ interviee was so poor he was struck off the list and not considered.