Middlesbrough’s return to the Premier League so far has gone pretty well, much to the delight of the Riverside side faithful propping up the bar.
The Boro fans in the Transfer Tavern are relaxing by the bar as it seems that Aitor Karanka can secure the club another year in the Premier League.
However, despite the side so far achieving their expectations, some players have not reached the standard that a Premier League club demands.
The biggest worry for every promoted club is if their current crop of players have the quality to win matches in England’s top competition, something that really can undermine your chances of staying up.
Raising performances levels against the so-called bigger teams is all well and good, though getting the sort of players to win on the rare occasions a newly-promoted side are genuinely expected to is crucial.
So here are TWO players that Karanka needs to axe in the coming week.
Jordan Rhodes
When Middlesbrough signed Jordan Rhodes last season many fans in the Tavern claimed they probably signed the best striker in the Championship.
Rhodes helped Middlesbrough get promoted the the Premier League and everything was going well.
However, the Scotland international just hasn’t done much in his debut Premier League season. He has yet to score a goal and is currently second choice to Alvaro Negredo.
Boro could still get some money of the Scotsman and with many Championship clubs reportedly interested in the striker, it may be wise to cash in on the former Blackburn man,
Emilio Nsue
The versatile player was a key part of Middlesbrough’s success last season, with the Equatorial Guinea international made 46 appearances last campaign. However, his playing time this season has seen a dramatic drop.
With Boro’s summer signing Antonio Barragan currently in form, the 27-year-old will not be able to play at right-back. Also, despite being versatile in the championship, he is unproven at a Premier League level.
If Karanka lets him go, then he could possibly strengthen his defence so if an injury occurs then they will have a suitable replacement with Premier League experience.
Do you agree that these two players should leave? If not who do you think should go? Tell us bellow!!
