Why Kim Hellberg was ‘worried’ at start of season – and what has put his mind at rest

Middlesbrough manager Kim Hellberg expressed satisfaction with his team's position 15 games into the Championship season heading into the international break. Despite ceding top spot to Birmingham City on goal difference following a loss at Wrexham and a goalless draw against Watford, Hellberg praised his side's overall development and bravery after managing significant squad turnover during the summer.

The club hopes leading scorer Will Lankshear, who missed recent games, will resume training next week during the two-week hiatus after being left out of the England Under-21s squad. Hellberg plans to use the break for tactical training with remaining players at Rockliffe Park ahead of their match against Bristol City.