Biggest task now facing Kim Hellberg after ‘mini pre-season’ helps late Middlesbrough signings

Writer Eric Paylor argues that Middlesbrough head coach Kim Hellberg faces a major challenge managing squad selection following significant late summer transfer business. The late arrivals of Rokas Pukstas, Amario Cozier-Duberry, Connor Barron, and Sam Byram expanded the squad well beyond the matchday limit of 20 players.

Paylor suggests Hellberg will likely rotate his starting lineup regularly, which could risk consistency unless injuries intervene. The writer believes the strengthened squad holds automatic promotion potential, while identifying in-form striker Will Lankshear as a key talisman ahead of their upcoming fixture against Wolves.