Middlesbrough boss Karanka can't wait to wait to have 'special' Alex Baptiste back from Sheffield United

Alex Baptiste has impressed for Sheffield United during his loan spell

Baptiste has impressed in a Blades shirt since joining on loan at the beginning of March, with United's defence looking much stronger with his arrival.

Following a recovery from serious injury sustained in pre-season, just after Baptiste had signed for Boro from Bolton, the centre-back has improved game-by-game and as an indication of how highly-rated he is, Karanka said the former Blackpool man will be a welcome re-addition to the squad in the summer.

“We are following him (at Sheffield United) and for me he’s a special player,” Karanka told The Gazette. “It’s been a tough, tough season for him but he’s enjoying playing again.

“I’m really pleased - I’ve known him for just 10 months but he’s the kind of player and the kind of lad who deserves every single thing.

“Of course (I’ll look forward to seeing him in pre-season). He’s the kind of player I’d like to have in my squad.”