 However after returning from Ashton Gate to Burnley he learned that he would be released upon the expiry of his contract.On 11 September 2012, Bikey signed for Middlesbrough on a free transfer after impressing manager Tony Mowbray on trial, who wanted cover for injured captain Rhys Williams.He made his debut in a 2–0 home win over Ipswich Town four days later, and was praised by Mowbray after the match.