Football Season Guide

A trying summer for Middlesbrough. After missing out on promotion last term, Boro opted to part ways with boss Tony Pulis. They now appear to have taken a massive risk appointing the untried, former player Jonathan Woodgate as the manager. Boro actually did pretty well last term with Tony Pulis getting the best out of squad, although his tactics were rather painful to watch at times in common with plenty of Pulis teams in the past. Signings have been lacking so far with only keeper Tomas Meijas rejoining. Stewart Downing has left after a long period of time at the club while defender Aden Flint is a big loss to Cardiff. Woodgate will have to get the best out of Britt Assombalonga, who saw opportunities limited under Pulis but largely performed when given the opportunity to do so. The defence was the strong suit last year and with Woodgate a famed defender that could well be their positive area again this time around. Home form was also impressive last term with sides finding, by and large, a long trip to the North East difficult.