Jonathan Woodgate gets Boro job – and we told you first

Middlesbrough have opted to give former England star Jonathan Woodgate his first role in management, taking over as head coach of the Championship club.

The 39-year-old, who had two spells with the club as a player – including ending his playing career with his hometown club – has been part of the coaching set-up since 2017.

TEAMtalk exclusively revealed in February that Woodgate was being lined up to replace Tony Pulis, and that has now come to pass.

Woodgate was first interviewed last month, when he is known to have impressed with his ideas, which included the setting out of his footballing philosophy; a mainstay of which is believed to be an attacking brand of football, stemming from his formative years at Leeds United.

We understand Woodgate had further talks earlier this month, with the club now deciding to push ahead with his appointment. We can reveal that the delay in confirming his appointment came after Boro chairman Steve Gibson met with a number of other candidates, including former Fulham boss Slavisa Jokanovic.

It is believed that Boro are ready to bring back another two former coaches in the shape of Steve Round and Leo Perkovich to assist Woodgate in his maiden managerial role.

 

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