Sheffield United midfielder Ravel Morrison branded 'absolutely outstanding' by Middlesbrough boss following deadline day move

Discussing his deadline day acquisition, the Boro boss was full of enthusiasm for the new recruit and said: “I just think he’s an absolutely outstanding player, and I think we can get the best out of him.

"People say he’s had issues, but who hasn’t had issues? I’ve had a few myself. It doesn’t concern me one little bit. Go and meet him. I’ll bring in him here, see what you think of him.

Woodgate continued: “He’s a top lad, a really nice kid. Sometimes the press portray you in the wrong way, and I think that’s happened with Ravel. Listen, we all make mistakes, I’ve done that myself. But he’s a good kid, a good lad. He’ll fit right into the dressing room and I’m really pleased to have him.”

After being tipped for greatness during the early stages of his career with Manchester United, a series of unsavoury, off-the-field issues blighted the technically gifted player's development.

After fleeting resurgence, which saw him play a role in Queens Park Rangers' promotion to the Premier League in 2014, the player's involvement in further controversy saw him leave England to ply his trade elsewhere; failing to unlock his potential with underwhelming spells for the likes of Lazio, Mexican side Atlas, and Ostersunds FK.

Last summer, the Blades picked the 27-year-old up as a free agent, but he was unable to break into the starting XI during the first half of the season, instead having to settle for the odd cup cameo.

Boro fans will be desperate to see their manager get the best out of a wasted talent on his latest sojourn, and witness the former England U21 international finally come good - a factor which could, in a tightly-packed Championship, make all the difference in whether the North East club are fighting against relegation or pushing for promotion back to the top tier in May.