Match Verdict

STAR MAN GEORGE FRIEND Birmingham

AITOR Karanka got the win he needed on his return to Boro, but his cause was greatly aided by opponents clearly off the pace.
If not Middlesbrough’s worst performance of the season, this was certainly up there. Whether feeling the effects of Covid-19 (it is unclear who exactly was ill) or simply two weeks in enforced isolation, Boro looked like a side unable to shift out of first gear. The second-half subs made a difference but, even then, Blues contained their hosts with a minimum of fuss.
Karanka will hope th...