Alex Revell clarifies Nick Freeman contract status with Boro

The 29-year-old's two-year contract was up for renewal this summer but before a decision could be made, he injured his knee on the Reading pitch back in March.

But the Boro boss confirmed that his own moral code, as well as the culture of the club, means there was no way Freeman was going to be released when he needed support.

"Nick Freeman has been an incredible servant to this club," said Revell.

"He’s a great person to have around and he’s a big part of the group, so we've made sure Nick is here. 

"It's really important for the culture of our club that that when times like that happen, we set the right precedent and we have done that. 

"So he'll be here, he'll be a part of us. He's got the same squad number, I'm not going to take that away, and mentally it’s been really tough for him. He’s just had a newborn so he’s having difficult times. 

"As a footballer, they are hard times when you get injured and you're out of contract, but no, we've made sure that he's a part of this group and when he gets fit, we'll make sure every day he's with us and he'll be given an opportunity to come in and show where he is. 

"And whether that's here or whether that means that he moves on because he gets an opportunity to play, that will be it. 

"But for the time being, we'll make sure Nick Freeman is part of this team and we're really delighted that the chairman made that move for the culture of this club because it's a big statement from us. 

"And [Nick] deserves it because he's a fantastic lad."