Birmingham's Marcus Bent seals loan deal to Boro

Middlesbrough have taken Birmingham striker Marcus Bent on a two-month emergency loan deal as he looks to recover his form and fitness.

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Marcus Bent is Gordon Strachan's first signing.

Bent, 31, has yet to make an appearance this season due to hamstring problems and Blues boss Alex McLeish has allowed the striker to leave to get more playing time.

"Going up there for two months is an opportunity for him," McLeish told the club's official website. "When it's time for him to come back, we hope he'll be in great form and pushing for a place in the team.

"He's obviously had one or two setbacks with injuries, but he's a big, strong centre forward with pace and presence - and when he's on top form he's an asset."

Middlesbrough had lacked options in attack due to injuries to Jeremie Aliadiere and Caleb Folan, and manager Gordon Strachan feels Bent will be a major boost to the side.

"I'm delighted to bring Marcus in," he said. "He brings us ability, strength, pace and experience. We have a young squad so his experience will be important and he has already made a good impression in training."