Middlesbrough

Why Middlesbrough must keep hold of 27-year-old star beyond next summer – would be a useful decision

Share

Why Middlesbrough should keep Martin Braithwaite beyond next summer

According to a report in Northern Echo, Middlesbrough manager Tony Pulis expects Danish forward Martin Braithwaite to be the subject of ongoing transfer speculations in the next couple of months, with January window around the corner for clubs all around Europe. However, the boss has urged the player to focus on the job in hand and help Boro to Premier League promotion by the end of this season.

This stems from the fact that the 27-year-old submitted a formal transfer request in the summer in an attempt to force his move away from Teesside to Spanish club Leganes. But Pulis forced him to stay as soon as the ex-West Brom manager got to know that he won’t be able to sign a replacement. (Northern Echo)

Martin Braithwaite

Now, as per the report, Leganes are poised to make a fresh bid to sign the Dane when the window reopens. However, Braithwaite has made sure that he won’t be forcing through a move this time around. He is in contract with Middlesbrough until the end of 2020/21 season. (Northern Echo)

Whatever uncertainty comes in the way, Boro must keep hold of the 27-year-old, not just until next summer, but beyond it. Here’s why:

Middlesbrough need Braithwaite’s quality

Boro have made a fantastic start to their season, staying in contention for direct promotion. They have one of the most water-tight defences in the division, having only conceded nine goals in 18 games at an average of one per two matches.

Tony Pulis

However, they have had problems in putting teams away. Scoring just 22 goals in 19 games is a meagre return for a side that is aiming to play top-flight football next season. Out of the 22, three have been netted by Braithwaite and his versatility up front helps the team in a massive way.

Predominantly a centre-forward, the Dane can operate as a number 10, as a right winger and as a left winger. He is lethal in front of the goal and is very good in the air from set-pieces, something which is very important when someone is playing under Tony Pulis. Overall, he is an all-around threat to the defenders and remains a key figure in the Boro front line.

Read More: Middlesbrough’s goal-scoring woes would vanish if they sign this £15m Burnley star in January

Hence, it is imperative from the club’s viewpoint to keep the 27-year-old not just beyond January, but for next season as well. It is because he will be a genuine threat to any defence if they play in the Premier League next season.

Mizgan Masani

A football enthusiast, who loves to analyse the game in depth. Following various leagues and knowing about the playing styles of different managers intrigues me to the core. Other than that, I am an Electronics Engineer! Follow me @mizgans

Recent Posts

The Vital Role of Communication on the Soccer Field: Unlocking Success in Leagues

Communication is the heartbeat of any successful soccer team. On the field, amidst the flurry…

1 day ago

The Brilliance of Paul Scholes: A Midfield Maestro’s Illustrious Career

In the annals of football history, few names evoke as much reverence and admiration as…

2 weeks ago

Online games on Football

Are you new to the world of football betting and would you like to take…

3 weeks ago

Using Soccer News to Enhance Your Game Strategy

If you are into sports betting, staying ahead of the game is crucial. One way…

4 weeks ago

Interesting Facts About Football: 40 Questions and Answers

I have prepared some interesting and fun football facts for you, perfect for those who love the  thrill of discovery almost as much as the excitement found at https://www.staycasino.com/. Like the  unpredictable nature of casino games, these facts will surprise and intrigue you with unexpected  twists and turns in the world of football. Here is the complete list of 40 interesting and fun facts  about football.  What are the most interesting facts about football?  Football was invented in Italy, Messi is the highest-paid athlete, and the fastest a player has  been sent off is 0 seconds!  Stay ahead with these facts and impress with your knowledge. This collection contains many  football facts that will surprise you. Tell your friends new facts they don't know.  Interesting Facts About Football  Every football fan should know these facts. You can also surprise your children with what they  don't know!  When was football invented?  Modern football originated from the Florentine game of Calcio Fiorentino, played in the 14th …

4 weeks ago

Real Sociedad vs PSG preview, team news, tickets and prediction

Real Sociedad returns to the midst of Europe's elite clubs in the UEFA Champions League…

1 month ago