FORMER Crystal Palace manager Alan Smith has joined Boro in a behind-the-scenes role as football consultant to assist Gareth Southgate and his staff on a variety of issues.
The Boro manager said: "This is a key appointment made by the Chairman and I after detailed discussions. We believe Alan brings with him many qualities that we have not previously possessed.
"It's very much a behind-the-scenes role and won't involve Alan being on the training pitch or in the dressing room, but I'm delighted to have him on board to help us push for promotion."
Smith was manager and Southgate captain when Crystal Palace won promotion to the Premier League in 1993-94, clinching the First Division title with a 3-2 victory over Boro at Ayresome Park, a result that signalled the end of Lennie Lawrence's managerial reign.
He led Palace to three cup semi-finals during his two spells as manager at Selhurst Park, while he also had stints as manager of Wycombe and as Fulham's Academy Director under Kevin Keegan.