Former Rotherham United rescuer Neil Warnock takes over at relegation threatened Middlesbrough

The 71-year-old has been appointed manager of Middlesbrough after the sacking of Jonathan Woodgate this morning.

Warnock has been out of work since leaving Cardiff City in November and takes over with Boro separated from third bottom Hull City only on goal difference.

Saturday's 3-0 home defeat by Swansea proved to be the final straw for the Boro board.

Warnock is no stranger to "fire fighting" in his long career, not least at Rotherham in 2016.

The Millers were deep in a Championship relegation scrap when Warnock arrived in the February on a short-term contract, succeeding  Neil Redfearn.

Warnock presided over 16 matches, taking the team on an 11-game unbeaten streak that moved them out of the relegation zone and to safety.

A former player at Rotherham, Warnock holds the record for the most promotions in English football, with eight.

During his playing days he had two years with the Millers from 1969-71.

Warnock has eight matches to try to keep Middlesbrough in the second tier.