Boro splash cash to go one better

AFTER the trauma of missing out on a Premier League place, Middlesbrough haven’t spent the close season moping.

Norwich City saw off Aitor Karanka’s side in the Championship play-off final thanks to unanswered first-half goals from Cameron Jerome and Nathan Redmond. Boro were poor on their big day, but are determined to do better this season.

The Teesside club has been a huge player in the transfer market over the summer. Back in has come £5.5million man Stewart Downing, six years after his exit.

The loss of Patrick Bamford — the on-loan Chelsea striker netted 19 goals last season — is undoubtedly a blow. The continued pursuit of Blackburn hot-shot Jordan Rhodes though shows the club’s intent.

Karanka has to contend with the loss of Lee Tomlin, whose £3million move to Bournemouth caused ripples: “I’m pleased for him, because it was an amazing opportunity to play in the Premier League,” said the Boro boss.

The transfer may have been partly down, though, to the acquisition of Italy international Diego Fabbrini on loan from Watford — a man who would have pushed the ex-Peterborough man hard for a starting place in the number shirt.

It is not clear exactly how many of his first-choice players Karanka intends to field tonight, but it could be thought a good opportunity to field new £3.6million striker Christian Stuani.

In midfield, Athletic will do well to prevent outstanding midfield man Grant Leadbitter from dictating the terms of play.