Boro banned bung claims agent - Lamb

England coach Steve McClaren's agent Colin Gordon has been banned by Middlesbrough for the last five years, according to chief executive Keith Lamb.

In an outspoken attack on his profession Gordon claimed the practice of `bung-taking' is rife in the game and is a "very sophisticated business".

Lamb told The Sun: "I'm staggered by the accusations made about agents by Colin. He's been banned from Middlesbrough FC for the last five years."

Gordon admitted to the newspaper: "My relationship with Steve Gibson (Middlesbrough chairman) broke down and I'm sad it happened -- but that's life.

"As for the ban, that's news to me but I do accept the relationship broke down. My company still represents Boro players and I'm proud of the relationship my employee in that area has with Keith Lamb."

Gordon has been criticised by the Association of Football Agents, who have demanded an apology for his comments, while the Football Association said yesterday they would be be writing to Gordon to ask him to back up his remarks.

A statement from the AFA's head Mel Stein read: "The Association have read the statement made by Colin Gordon with great regret and disbelief.

"The Association and our members consider the statements made by Mr Gordon to be not only reckless and inappropriate but also potentially defamatory and are considering their position in that respect.

"They will be contacting Mr Gordon personally to seek a retraction and an apology."