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Back three and Vitek concerns, harsh Lankshear reality and one minor positive for Middlesbrough

Middlesbrough talking points and take aways after the 2-0 defeat at Wrexham…

Published: Thursday, 5 November 2026 at 2:00 PM
Back three and Vitek concerns, harsh Lankshear reality and one minor positive for Middlesbrough
Key Things to Know
  • Teesside Live questions Middlesbrough's back-three tactics and goalkeeper Radek Vitek following a defeat to Wrexham.
  • Wrexham defeated Middlesbrough, ending an 11-game unbeaten run for their second league defeat this season.
  • Star striker Will Lankshear missed the game through injury and remains a major doubt against Watford.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Teesside Live's Craig Johns analyzes Middlesbrough's defeat to Wrexham, which ended an 11-game unbeaten run and marked only their second league loss of the season. Johns questions manager Kim Hellberg's tactical decision to deploy a back-three system, while also raising concerns regarding goalkeeper Radek Vitek's form following George Thomason's opening goal from distance.

The analysis also highlights Middlesbrough's struggles without injured 15-goal striker Will Lankshear, noting that replacement Kyle Joseph failed to provide an effective focal point. However, Johns identifies substitute striker David Strelec's late performance as a minor positive and suggests him as a potential starter for the upcoming match against Watford.

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