MIDDLESBROUGH are banking on their Brazilian blend to steady a sinking ship. Player manager Bryan Robson yesterday signed World Cup defender Branco on an 18 month contract, subject to a successful work permit application.

He will link up with his country man Juninho as Middlesbrough attempt to halt their slide down the table.

No transfer fee was involved as the 31 year old Branco had bought out his contract at his previous club Internacional of Brazil.