Middlesbrough fans have reacted with surprise and disappointment to Djed Spence’s loan move to Nottingham Forest.
The 21-year-old has joined the Reds from their Championship rivals on a season-long loan.
There was uncertainty over whether a deal for the 21-year-old had been completed ahead of Tuesday's 11pm deadline, but his move to Trentside has now been sanctioned by the EFL.
Spence was a first-team regular for Boro last season, but has fallen out of favour under Neil Warnock this term.
Boro fans have taken to social media since the transfer was announced, with one saying: “Bizarre decision, utterly bizarre. I hope a replacement is lined up. We look so ropey at the back. No point signing forwards when we are leaking goals like we are.”
Another added: “This is disappointing. Thought he played well in the first two home games, looked like he was when he first came into the team under Woody (former Boro boss Jonathan Woodgate).”
A third said: “Hope it’s not a permanent move. Young player that’s started the season well hopefully he finds his form at forest then comes back even better next year, don’t see the point tho we’re now another man down in an already thin squad smh.”
But another fan could understand the rationale behind the decision to let Spence leave Teeside for the season, saying: “Queue complaints… but he’s third / fourth choice in both his preferred positions. Young and at an age where first team football is important, a very smart loan - if he plays.”
