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Tony Pulis and Middlesbrough part ways after missing out on play-offs


Middlesbrough have parted with boss Tony Pulis, after this season's failure to win promotion to the Premier League.

The club announced that the 61-year-old's contract, which was reported to end this summer, would not be extended.

Pulis met with chairman Steve Gibson in the aftermath of the campaign in which the Teessiders finished a point outside the play-off places.

Pulis, who took over in December 2017, led Boro to the play-off semi-finals last season but lost to Aston Villa.

Missing out on promotion will have a knock-on effect on Middlesbrough's finances for 2019-20.

This season marked the end of their two-year run of parachute payments from the Premier League, following relegation in 2016-17.

Gibson said: "I'd like to thank Tony for his hard work and commitment over the past 18 months. He has been a joy to work with and a complete gentleman.

"Two years ago we invested heavily in the squad in terms of transfer fees and salaries in an attempt to regain our Premier League status. This happened before Tony's arrival.

"Over the past 18 months Tony has been proactive, not only in the ambition to win football matches and promotion to the Premier League, but also in addressing our financial position in order to comply and respect the Championship fair play criteria.

"He has ensured that the club is stable and strong for the future. He leaves us in excellent condition."

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