Barragan backs Negredo to come good at Boro

Middlesbrough striker Alvaro Negredo is still good enough to be playing for the biggest clubs in Europe – according to his teammate and compatriot Antonio Barragan.

The Boro striker – who is on loan from Valencia – notched on his Premier League bow for Boro back in August but has failed to find the net since.

Negredo was a smash-hit with Man City back in the 2013/14 season but his career has faltered since a move to the Mestalla.

And there have been some questioning his form at Boro of late – leading manager Aitor Karanka to leap to the defence of his front man.

And full-back Barragan – who also joined Boro from Valencia in the summer – insists Negredo remains one of the very best strikers around.

“I think he’s one of the best players out there,” said Barragan.

“He knows how to score. I’m really lucky to be able to play with him.

“He’s one of those players who tries to please the fans and tries to get the very best out of the side. He’s proud to be here.

“He could definitely still play for one of the top European sides.”