Football Season Review

№4: Middlesbrough

Middlesbrough will be devastated that they could not get over the line after a remarkable campaign where Aitor Karanka's meticulous approach so nearly did the business. Conceding twice early on in the play-off final against Norwich did for them in the end but Karanka can be very proud of his side's efforts. There were two big plusses. Patrick Bamford managed to score 19 goals in his loan spell from Chelsea although they appear unlikely to keep him beyond this term. The other big success story was a defence that saw them concede 37 times and just 12 times on home soil, a quite outstanding feat. Middlesbrough also won 15 times at home, a better record than any other side on their home ground. Boro know they need to improve their attack for next season, especially with Bamford's departure and keeping hold of Karanka will be vital for another push at the top flight.


Player of the Season: Patrick Bamford