Former Middlesbrough manager Aitor Karanka has posted a tribute on social media following the death of his father.

Fernando Karanka died at the age of 69 on Wednesday, having fought a short battle against cancer.

A former coach himself, Fernando worked for Spanish side Alaves in the 1980s and is credited with inspiring his son to take up the game.

Confirming the news on Twitter, Karanka wrote: "Goodbye dad. You gave me a lesson in life up until your last day. A true role model.

"Thank you so much. You'll forever be in our hearts."

Karanka is currently without a club, having left Boro by mutual consent in March.