DEPARTING winger Adam Johnson has been paid a glowing tribute by Gordon Strachan, who says Boro must now become a more rounded team to cope with the loss of their top scorer.

The 22-year-old - who would have been out of contract this summer - has joined big spending Manchester City for an undisclosed fee in what is being labelled the biggest permanent deal of transfer deadline day by the media.

"It's hugely disappointing but that's life and we get on with it," said Strachan. "We love him as a kid and I expect him to do great things at Manchester City. He's a good, level-headed lad and City's status won't affect him.

"The facts say that when Adam has played we have been a half decent side. But now we can't look round for Adam and hope he skips past a couple of players and scores.

"Now the whole thing has to change. We have to be a more rounded team. Everyone has to take more responsibility and chip in with goals and assists. We need to become more rounded.

"The fans are not stupid, they know Adam has been a huge part of the team this season, but I know that they also want to see players who can compete in every game.

"I will try to give them that. It doesn't sit well with me if I don't see players competing in every moment of every game."

Johnson, who returned to Rockliffe Park this morning to collect his belongings and say his goodbyes, was quick to thank Strachan and the Boro staff for everything they have done for him.

He said: "I've been there since I was about 12 and I'll be forever thankful to everyone there - they know who they are - who has helped me along the way and I hope they do well this season as well.

"Gordon Strachan was fantastic with me from day one. He understands I'm an ambitious person and this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity so I'd like to thank him as well."

The former England Under-21 international made 77 starts and 59 substitute appearances in all competitions for Boro after progressing through the club's much-acclaimed Academy.

There were two other deals involving Boro on transfer deadline day.

Striker Mido has joined West Ham for the remainder of the 2009-10 season after the Egypt international spent the first half of the season on loan to Egyptian side Zamalek.