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Tom Hall

Middlesbrough in automatic promotion form since Chris Wilder's arrival

Data shows Middlesbrough have been the 2nd most in form team in the Championship since Wilder arrived at the Riverside Stadium.




Improvement on the pitch has been evident just three months into Wilder’s tenure. The North Yorkshire side have picked up 17 out of a total of 24 points in 7 leagues games since Wilder’s arrival.



The Boro are also now six games unbeaten which is the teams best period of form so far this season.


Podcaster for The Boro Breakdown, Dana Malt, says there is a newfound “buzz” around the club at the moment.


“Results always help with that of course, but the way we're playing as well has brought about such a positive atmosphere,” Dana said.


Middlesbrough have seen a shift in the style of football since Wilder replaced Neil Warnock. Dana believes this has been key to the improved performances.


“We've played on the front foot a lot more, using the ball to progress play through the thirds,” Dana said. “Under Warnock the plan was to knock it long and play in the final third. Under Wilder, we're not afraid to take risks in the build-up.”


Dana added: “We're much more proactive as opposed to the reactive approach under Warnock which saw us often pander to the opposition and be controlled by them.”


The improved form has seen Boro move from 14th place to 7th place in the Championship since Wilder arrived. They are now in the mix to challenge for promotion.



Wilder made his first addition as Boro manager on Sunday with the loan signing of Brighton attacker Aaron Connolly.


“I’m delighted. It’s an area of the pitch we need to improve in terms of competition for places,” Wilder said. “He’s a young player, he’s played in the Premier League a number of times, and he’s from a technical football club. He’s also played for his country.”


"He gives us pace, can finish at the top of the pitch and gives us competition for the players around him," The Boro boss added.


Boro fan, Dana Malt, believes it is crucial that all January business is completed early. "Firstly, we need it, and secondly, it gives those players time to get bedded into the system and the way Wilder wants to play."


Dana added: "Given the emphasis on high energy output, it wouldn't be ideal to bring someone in on Deadline Day and then have to wait a month or so to get up to scratch with the style of play."


Chris Wilder has an impressive managerial CV, amassing five promotions across 20 years.


His most notable achievement is guiding his boyhood club Sheffield United from League One to a 9th place Premier League finish.


It’s early days but there are signs of a bright future at the Riverside Stadium under the new boss.

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