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Boro Allow Southgate Complacency
Boro Allow Southgate Complacency | 
Much to even my own surprise, since the turn of the new year I’ve been tipping Middlesbrough for relegation. The rest of the footballing world has, too. Football is a funny old game, isn’t it? A year ago I would’ve been singing the praises of Middlesbrough for holding the big clubs to draws or even defeats. Now, Middlesbrough find themselves in a sticky situation – and they don’t appear to care.
Middlesbrough chairman Steve Gibson yesterday announced that Gareth Southgate will not be facing the sack this season as it would “solve nothing.” I cannot help but question Gibson’s statement, as it bluntly states Middlesbrough’s lack of ambition.
Imagine a job where you knew you could perform terribly and not have to worry about getting sacked. How would you perform? Certainly not like your job is on the line. Because, let’s face it: it’s not. Telling someone that there is no chance of them being sacked allows complacency, and tells the players that regardless of performances, no one will be losing their job. Players follow the manager’s lead, and Southgate is showing zero urgency.
So is this a sign of Middlesbrough waving the white flag? All signs point to a resounding “yes.” Just look at the words of despair and defeat that Gibson used:
“I have spoken with a lot of fans over the last few weeks and they ask me about Gareth Southgate. But the magic wand in our situation isn’t sacking Gareth Southgate.
Of course, everybody has their own opinion in football and I understand the frustration of the fans. I have always said that we have a knowledgable crowd at Middlesbrough and you have to respect that.
I take on board the views of the fans because I care as much as they do. But if I was to sack Gareth Southgate at this stage, how would it help the situation?”
How would it help the situation!? Just look at Tottenham. Spurs replaced Juande Ramos with a more than capable Harry Redknapp, and they’ve gone from rock bottom of the table to a UEFA Cup fight. Gibson is implying that regardless of the actions Boro takes, nothing can rescue their season.
I, for one, think that this statement from Gibson just reiterates the belief that Middlesbrough will be playing Championship football next season. It’s a long way from their 4-1 win over a rampant Manchester United a few seasons ago, and unless they get their act together they may struggle in the Coca Cola Championship. Charlton has found it difficult, and Boro can expect the same.
Is Middlesbrough really going to get relegated? Have your say in the comments section below or head on over to the Premiership Talk Forum!
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We’ve still got a fighting chance.
I think Southgate has had a poor season, made some mistakes and can count himself lucky to still be in a job but i back Gibson’s decision to keep him. At this stage of the season who could we have got in to replace who would have made an immediate impact?
At some stage the players on the pitch have to start taking responsibility for the team’s form.