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Middlesbrough signing this brilliant 22-year-old speedster would be the answer to their lack of goals

Middlesbrough opinion: Should Boro make a move for Kiril Despodov?

Tony Pulis is known for his defensive style of play and that has been on show this season, with Middlesbrough sitting in fifth place. However, while they are in good shape, the fact that they’ve scored only 40 goals this season has cost them.

That puts them as the sixth least scoring team in the second tier this season, but their defensive record is impeccable. Boro have only conceded 28 goals this season, which is the best record in the league, 8 goals less than what Sheffield United have conceded.

Yet, while fifth place is theirs to lose, it is certainly in danger, given the fact that only five points separate 10th-placed Nottingham Forest and 5th-placed Middlesbrough.

But that being said, Pulis’ squad is far from perfect and he needs reinforcements at left-back, right-back, midfield and more importantly, in the wide positions. Stewart Downing is 34 years old and ageing, while Rajiv van La Para hasn’t done enough to warrant a permanent move.

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The on-loan Huddersfield winger has failed to make an impression and that only leaves Marcus Tavernier as their only wide option. Middlesbrough need another option on the wing and one man they should turn to is Kiril Despodov.

The 22-year-old flourished as a youth product at CSKA Sofia but a move to Italy since, has seen him struggle. A brilliant winger, Despodov has the ability to single-handedly change a game when he wants.

That’s one of the many reasons why Middlesbrough should target him but the main reason is his turn of pace. Very quick off the mark, the 22-year-old combines his natural athleticism with impressive close control and dribbling skills, making him very hard to defend against.

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Furthermore, his ability in the final third has been on show since his move to Sofia. During his three-year spell with the club, Kiril Despodov managed to produce 50 goals in 79 appearances, a stunning return.

Moreover, Despodov is versatile enough to play anywhere across the front-line and has the work ethic to match his skills. This allows him to be an asset both offensively and defensively, harassing opponents until they give up the ball.

While he does tend to be a little selfish on the ball, the Bulgarian’s directness tends to be more of an asset than a curse, and it’s one that Middlesbrough need to exploit.

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Conclusion

If there is anything that Middlesbrough have missed this season it’s directness in the final third with a tinge of creativity. And if there is anyone affordable enough to add that for them next season, it’s Kiril Despodov, and that is a move they should make to improve their team.