Rotation was not Middlesbrough’s problem but Kim Hellberg must find better tinkering balance

Craig Johns argues that tactical overthinking rather than squad rotation cost Middlesbrough in their comeback 2-2 draw with Cardiff City. Manager Hellberg defended benching £8 million striker Will Lankshear, but the writer contends the shift to a back three left midfielder Aidan Morris isolated against Cardiff. The introduction of Lankshear and Sebastian Berhalter helped spark a second-half resurgence.

Johns notes Middlesbrough have conceded two or more goals in five of their last six matches despite remaining unbeaten in that stretch. The column suggests Hellberg must strike a better balance with tactical adjustments, expressing concern that Middlesbrough overly accommodated Cardiff rather than playing to their own strengths at home.