THE LINKS between Boro and Millwall will be strengthened on Saturday August 1 when the two teams meet at The Den in a benefit match for Richard Sadlier.

The striker, once tipped by many to have a big career in the game, was forced to cut short a promising career through injury six years ago at the age of just 24.

Boro last visited The Den in February 1995, when the sides played out a 0-0 draw in the old first division.　

Subsequently, the two sets of fans have built up a rapport in support of former Millwall and Boro favourite Colin Cooper after the death of his young son, Finlay.

Many Millwall fans contributed to an online Book of Condolence on mfc.co.uk, while supporters have taken part in friendly games to raise funds for the Finlay Cooper Fund charity.

Cooper, now first team coach at the Riverside, is assured of a warm welcome when he returns to south-east London.

Dublin-born Sadlier won one Republic of Ireland cap and was in the squad for the 2002 World Cup finals in Japan and Korea before withdrawing with the hip injury that was to force him out of the game.

"It's been almost six years now since I retired so I'm delighted we've finally made this happen," said the 30-year-old.

"I can't wait for the chance to play at The Den once again and have the opportunity to finally show my appreciation to everyone connected with Millwall and to say a final farewell.

"I have so many people to thank for making this possible, but I'd like to say how grateful I am to both Millwall and Middlesbrough for agreeing to play the game."

Kick-off is 3pm.

Boro have previously confirmed fixtures against newly-crowned Scottish Division Three champions Dumbarton at the Strathclyde Homes Stadium on Wednesday July 22 (7.30pm), Carlisle United at Brunton Park on Saturday July 25 (3pm) and Darlington at the Darlington Arena on Wednesday July 29 (7.30pm).

Click here for details of Boro's 2009/10 Coca-Cola Championship fixture programme.