Gibson took over as chairman at Middlesbrough in 1994

Middlesbrough chairman Steve Gibson has dismissed claims that he is considering selling the club following their relegation to the Championship.

Reports in a Sunday newspaper claimed that Gibson was pondering stepping down, an accusation he strongly denied in an official statement.

"The club is not for sale. I'm absolutely committed to Middlesbrough Football Club," it read.

"My sole focus for the club is getting us back in the Premier League."

Gibson added: "The fans can ignore this silly report.

"I've made that absolutely clear in the recent past so it's hugely disappointing that a national newspaper can write such stories without speaking to me or anyone else at the football club first."

Chief executive Keith Lamb also made clear his disappointment at the newspaper reports, and further outlined his and Gibson's intentions for the forthcoming season.

Steve's commitment remains as strong as ever Middlesbrough chief executive Keith Lamb

"Steve and I have gone to extraordinary lengths recently to make it clear to the media that the club is not for sale and never has been," Lamb said.

"Steve's commitment remains as strong as ever. It's important the fans know that Steve's loyalty to the club has never wavered."

Gibson took over as chairman of Middlesbrough Football Club in 1994, having been part of the consortium that saved them from liquidation in 1986.

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