The transfer window closed on Thursday evening, concluding Middlesbrough’s summer business at ten new incomings. And while in such a difficult market that should be commended, it’s no secret that manager Chris Wilder felt his squad was still short of having the required depth. His hope going into the final few days was that Boro could secure two midfielders and a striker, with at the very least one defensive midfielder feeling important given the lack of cover for Jonny Howson.

Paddy McNair can, and has, covered the roles this season, but the Boro boss has been clear on his desire to field the Northern Irishman as a right-sided centre-back, believing that to be his best position while also wanting to develop a settled back line. The club do have some talented younger players at the club in Hayden Hackney, Joe Gibson and Caolan Boyd-Munce who could potentially be handed opportunities too. David Bentley has carefully outlined the players they could still sign. Read More