Strachan takes 'special job' at Middlesbrough

Former Celtic boss Gordon Strachan was appointed manager of Championship (second division) team Middlesbrough on Monday.

"It's a special job," Strachan told Middlesbrough's website (www.mfc.premiumtv) after replacing Gareth Southgate who was sacked last week.

"I don't have to be here, I don't need to be here, I want to be here. I don't need football but when I'm in it, I love it," added the 52-year-old after signing a four-year contract with the English team.

Former Scotland and Manchester United midfielder Strachan left Celtic in May after spending four years at the Glasgow club.

Middlesbrough, relegated from the Premier League in May, are fourth in the Championship after drawing 2-2 at Preston North End on Saturday.

Strachan has also managed Coventry City and Southampton, the team he took to the 2003 FA Cup final where they lost 1-0 to Arsenal.