Middlesbrough’s resounding 5-1 victory over Luton Town has injected newfound optimism into the club’s Championship campaign.
With this recent success, midfielder Finn Azaz has highlighted the team’s growing belief that they can win every game as they aim to build on a challenging season start. Saturday’s win marks only the second time this season that Middlesbrough have secured back-to-back league wins, bringing hope that the team has found the momentum it needs to climb the table.
Azaz Expresses Team’s Confidence
Boro’s season has been a mixture of promising performances but missed opportunities, often leaving them looking up the table towards their promotion ambitions. However, following the Luton match, there’s a sense that the team’s hard work and consistency are beginning to pay off. Reflecting on the squad’s determination, Azaz shared that there’s now a collective belief in their ability to beat any opponent in the league.
“I don’t think anything’s changed really. We try and always be consistent with our performances, and I believe we have been doing that. This is a tough league, so results aren’t always easy to come by. We’ve just got to stay consistent, stay positive, and hopefully, we continue to get the rewards for that.”
Turning Performances into Points
Despite high levels of play under manager Michael Carrick, Middlesbrough has previously struggled to convert performances into wins. Saturday’s dominant display, however, showed a side more than capable of taking control and capitalising on their chances. The team’s attacking prowess was particularly evident, with Azaz scoring twice in a stellar individual performance. His first goal came off a smart assist from Ben Doak, who set up Azaz’s composed finish. For his second, Azaz fired a powerful shot from the corner of the box, securing one of his finest goals in a Boro shirt.
The timing of this boost in form is critical for Middlesbrough, coming just before the international break. With a well-deserved break, Carrick’s squad can regroup and build on the positive momentum for the season’s next phase.
Writer’s View
With confidence growing within the squad, Azaz’s remarks embody the revitalised spirit among the Boro players. This recent display suggests Middlesbrough are ready to turn the corner, not only in their immediate form but also in their long-term goals for the season. Consistency will be key, but if the team sustains this intensity, promotion hopes could become an increasingly realistic goal.
Founder and Editor-in-Chief at The Real EFL, Gary is a passionate Lincoln City fan with extensive content creation across the Championship and EFL. He also shares expert football betting tips.