Gareth Southgate's side made it 12 games in a row without a win as their last victory came in November at Aston Villa.

There was no place in the starting line-up for Egypt midfielder Mohamed Shawky, who remained on the bench for full 90 minutes.

New boy Craig Bellamy scored the only goal of the game to hand the Citizens three points.

Another new signing who stole the show was goalkeeper Shay Given, who enjoyed a terrific debut at the City of Manchester Stadium, making a series of decisive saves.

Boro, who could well be rock bottom by the end of the day, remain 19th bottom with 22 points, while City jump to 9th place on 31.