Duncan Watmore deal was never in doubt, insists Middlesbrough boss Neil Warnock

The former Sunderland player - who has made a big impact after joining in Teessiders on a short-term deal in the autumn - had been linked with a move to several rival clubs, with his initial contract due to expire after Boro's home game with Birmingham City on January 16.

Boro had tabled an offer to the 26-year-old, with Warnock publicly stating that the 'talking was finished' while his representatives considered the offer amid potential rival options.

Burnley and West Brom - whose manager Sam Allarydce worked with Watmore during his time on Wearside - were reportedly monitoring developments along with several Championship clubs including Stoke City, Watford, Swansea City and Bristol City.

But Watmore - among the nominees for the Championship player of the month award for December - has now pledged his future to the club and Warnock insists that he was always confident he would stay put.

On Watmore, who has scored five goals in eight games since joining in November, Warnock commented: “We’re delighted to get him on board.

“I don’t think it was ever in doubt that he would sign with us because he has loved every minute of it here so far.

“He gets on with the players and the staff, and he is really enjoying himself.

“He’s a real good lad. We’re looking forward to having him here on a longer-term basis now and hopefully seeing him score plenty more goals for the club.”