McClaren upbeat despite Boro exit FORMER Oxford United coach and now Middlesbrough boss Steve McClaren refused to be disappointed by his side's UEFA Cup exit last night.

Boro lost 1-0 against Sporting Lisbon in the second leg of their second knockout round tie to go out 4-2 on aggregate.

Pedro Barbosa's late goal sealed victory for Sporting, and brought the visiting side's European adventure to an end.

"We had three great chances to get the first vital goal - and the game was decided by inches - but you can't fault the players," said McClaren.

"Europe has been a fantastic experience and everyone at the club has handled it so well.

"We've had a great run, which has come to an end, but we've got a little taste for it and we want more again next year.

"We've had a great run, which has come to an end, but we've got a little taste for it and we want more again next year," he added.