THE OPPOSITION
It's all change at The Riverside Stadium this season with a new man in charge, a change in philosophy, and a much changed playing squad.
Following Tony Pulis' departure in the summer, club favourite Jonathan Woodgate was handed the reins with the brief of bringing attractive football to Teesside. If one game is anything to go by then it appears Boro fans are in for much more goal action after their opening day 3-3 draw away at Luton Town.
Stewart Downing, John Obi Mikel, Andy Lonergan, Aden Flint, and Martin Braithwaite have all departed over the summer months as Woodgate seeks to lower the age of his group. Aside from goalkeeper Tomas Meijas, none of Boro's other arrivals, Marc Bola, Anfernee Dijksteel, Marcus Browne, or Rumarn Burrell, were over 21.
THE MANAGER
Middlesbrough born and bred, Woodgate began his career with his hometown club before moving to Leeds United at the age of 16. He made his debut at the age of 18 and amassed 142 appearances over the next five seasons before moving to Newcastle United. As injuries began to take their toll, he made just 37 appearances before an ill-fated spell at Real Madrid. He returned to the UK and Boro in 2006 but managed just 178 appearances over his final ten seasons with Boro, Tottenham Hotspur, Stoke, and then again on Teesside. The central defender also played eight times for England over a nine-year spell.
After a brief spell as an international scout for Liverpool in Spain and Portugal, Woodgate was appointed assistant coach to newly-appointed Middlesbrough caretaker manager Steve Agnew, following the dismissal of Aitor Karanka. After the club were relegated from the Premier League at the end of the season, Woodgate vacated his position and joined the club's Academy coaching staff. In December 2017, Woodgate returned to his previous position as first team assistant coach, under the management of Tony Pulis, whom he then replaced this June.
TEAM NEWS
Aside from Mads Bech Sorensen, everyone else in the squad is in contention for tomorrow's game at The Riverside Stadium.
Boro club captain George Friend is expected to be available for this weekend's game having missed the majority of pre-season and the opener at Luton through injury. Anfernee Dijksteel could also come into contention but Dael Fry (hamstring) is doubtful. Another summer recruit, Marc Bola, will hope to make his debut after being an unused substitute last week.
LAST MEETING
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HOW TO FOLLOW
iFollow Brentford will be live from 2.30pm with Mark Burridge, Mick Cabble, and Ciaran Brett bringing commentary of our first away trip of the campaign.
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