McMahon has fought back from a succession of injuries

Middlesbrough defender Tony McMahon has signed a new three-year contract.

The 23-year-old's deal keeps him at the relegation-threatened Premier League club until 2012.

Right-back McMahon made his debut in 2005 but a series of injuries prevented him becoming a first-team regular until this season.

"Why would I want to leave?" he told the club website. "I've been through a lot but the club always stood by me. Now I've got aims I want to achieve."

McMahon went out on loan to Sheffield Wednesday earlier this season, returning in December as manager Gareth Southgate sought defensive cover.

He has since made 11 league appearances in Boro's battle against relegation.

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"Even when I went on loan, I always said I wanted to come back to Middlesbrough," he added.

"There's no reason why I can't achieve things with my hometown club. I want to captain the team and I want to win something."

McMahon's injuries include a broken leg, dislocated shoulder and knee problems, and manager Southgate paid tribute to his character.

"Tony's had a long battle back from two very serious injuries and he's got himself back in the first team squad," he said.

"He warrants a new contract on what he has achieved in recent months.

"There are still big challenges ahead for him to try and force his way into the team regularly, but he has shown tremendous character to come back from the injuries and show people that he is able to play at this level.

"His character is one of his biggest assets."

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