NEWS of Gareth Southgate’s departure as manager of Middlesbrough is a reminder that winning games does not just win points but should keep you in a job. Well, that is usually the case anyway.
Many who question Southgate’s departure refer to a nice guy who was loyal servant to the club and question why Steve Gibson should sack him after a home victory.
Winning has not been a consistent theme at Middlesbrough, certainly in terms of home form.
There has been something lacking and the fans have voted with their feet.
It is nothing new. In the North–East, we have accepted defeat and sticking with managers for the wrong reasons.
Many will say that despite having good personal qualities, Gareth Southgate’s fate should have been determined long before the Boro’s match against Derby.
There is either a misjudgement on the part of the chairman Steve Gibson, or an acknowledgement of Southgate’s service to the club, that did not bring a change of direction that could have saved the club from relegation.
Middlesbrough need to get back on track to winning ways and make a play for the Premiership.
Bernie Walsh, Coxhoe.
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