Strachan backs his trio of Celtic old boys to boost Boro

Gordon Strachan has called on his trio of Celtic old boys to drag Boro back into promotion contention.

Scotland international Barry Robson, New Zealand striker Chris Killen and Willo Flood will all be involved against Sheffield United today after completing their transfers from Celtic yesterday.

Strachan says his buying, constrained by a “limited budget“ is not finished, with Wayne Routledge of QPR a target, and another defender being hunted, and he admits “everyone“ is for sale at the right price.

But the Scot reckons Robson can revitalise Boro with his “enthusiasm and character“ on and off the pitch.

Strachan said: “Barry has won championships, Chris has been unfortunate with injuries at Celtic but is fit again and he’s a good footballer. Willo is a good player with a big heart and he’ll also be a good addition. We’re glad they’re here and I think they’ll be good value.

“I know what I am getting. They will make the place more professional. They will add to the ability and drive and they all have good characters. They know me and exactly what I’m like and my sense of humour and the demands I put on players, and it’s never been a problem to them.

“They just need to enjoy playing football with us and make us better.

“They’ve played in big pressure games these guys and they know what it’s like to be at a club where you have to win every game. They haven’t come here just for the money, that’s for sure!“

Strachan admitted he needs a boost after a disappointing opening to his Boro reign. He added: “We are going through a rough period. I’m going through it as a manager. You get it. We have to inject confidence. If an individual is having a bad game they just have to work harder.”

Strachan has shipped out Didier Digard and Mohamed Shawky this week and Mark Yates is in talks with Sheffield United and therefore won’t play.

He has “not heard anything“ about Blackburn’s interest in Gary O’Neil.