Matthew Bates believes Middlesbrough will still be playing Premier League football next season.

A 3-1 win against Hull City has breathed fresh life into Boro’s bid to avoid relegation, and although they are still two points adrift of safety with just six games remaining, midfielder Bates is in confident mood.

"It's given us a lifeline," said the 22-year-old. "It's a massive three points and it drags a few teams nearer. There is still a long way to go but we're in a healthier situation.

"I still don't think we'll go down and there are a lot of teams who still can be relegated. We've been written off but the players are desperate to stick together and fight our way through it."