Kieran Scott has spoken about two of Middlesbrough’s loan signings and believes that one of them could extend his stay beyond this season.
Middlesbrough were busy in the transfer market, working all the way up until the end of deadline day to bring players through the door.
George Edmundson and Ben Doak were the most noticeable additions and Boro head of football Kieran Scott thinks one of them could have a long-term future at the Riverside Stadium.
Middlesbrough eye permanent deal for George Edmundson
Injuries to Darragh Lenihan, Dael Fry, and Rav van den Berg left the Teesiders short-changed at the back.
In response, Scott dipped into the market to sign Edmundson and Doak on loan from Ipswich Town and Liverpool respectively.
A permanent move for Doak is unlikely given that he is touted as one for the future at the Premier League giants but, on the other hand, Scott believes that Edmundson, nicknamed ‘The Fridge’, could be a “future asset”.
“Two totally different positions but as important as each other,” he said, via the Nothern Echo.
“Ben at Liverpool is an exciting player, he’ll get bums off seats. He’s direct, quick and he will be a good addition for us.
“But George as well, coming in to help us at the minute navigate a centre-back issue. But we see a future in George as well. We think he’s someone who can be a future asset. We’re in a good position on that loan. We’ll see how he settles down. I’m sure he’ll be playing soon.”
George Edmundson turned down Championship rivals to join Middlesbrough
The signing of the centre-back can be considered a coup for Boro given the competition they had amongst their fellow Championship clubs.
Portsmouth, Blackburn Rovers and Hull City were all linked with the former Rangers man, only for the defender to choose Michael Carrick’s side instead.
Furthermore, given that Edmundson is in the final year of his contract at Ipswich, if he performs he could set himself up to stay at the Riverside Stadium long-term.
When can George Edmundson make Middlesbrough debut?
Middlesbrough face Preston North End on Saturday and Edmundson could be in line to make his debut following his deadline-day loan move.
Boro will be looking for a first home win of the season after picking up the first three points of the league campaign against Cardiff City last time out.