Southgate was disappointed with the defence against Hibs

Middlesbrough manager Gareth Southgate has warned his side to sharpen up following their narrow 3-2 win at Scottish side Hibernian on Saturday.

Boro looked sharp going forward but Southgate was disappointed with his team's overall defensive display.

"We've learned a tremendous amount today," he told BBC Tees.

"The system they played caused us problems and we've got a lot to learn about getting our shape defensively. We were loose as a unit."

The game was settled by a brace from Brazilian striker Afonso Alves and a header by David Wheater after Scottish international striker Steven Fletcher gave the Edinburgh side a two-goal lead.

Alves' contribution was welcomed by Southgate, who sees the striker as a key part of his plans for the new season.

"I think this time of the year putting fresh legs on makes a big impact, and we had the likes of Afonso to make an impact," he said.

"Pleasing we've kept a winning habit, and good for Afonso to get a couple of goals and I'm sure he'll be pleased to have bagged a couple."

Southgate also added a comment regarding New Zealand international defender Tony Lochhead, who is currently on trial at the Riverside.

"He can't play in any matches for us and it's an area where we're quite inexperienced. It's something we're assessing at the moment," said Southgate.

"He's an international player, good character, fit lad. He's with us this week and we'll make a decision at the end of his trial."