Rob Edwards has hinted Middlesbrough are likely to open the season with a back three after favouring the system throughout pre-season.
The Boro boss used the shape once again in a 2–2 draw at Rangers, offering a strong indication of how his side may line up against Swansea City on August 9.
Edwards Hints at Continuity Despite Transfer Uncertainty
With Rav van den Berg missing out due to a back spasm, Middlesbrough fielded Dael Fry, Darragh Lenihan and Neto Borges as centre-halves, supported by Luke Ayling and Sammy Silvera in the wing-back positions. The trio held firm in the first half as Boro showed more intensity than they had in the midweek defeat at Bradford City.
Speaking after the game, Edwards made clear that while the formation is not fixed, it reflects the current balance of his squad.
“The system suits us at the moment, because we’ve not really been able to make any changes. So, that’s the reason why. If different people come in, or more people come in, then maybe we might have a look at it. But as you know, the way football is going, you can put one thing up on the board and it becomes a completely different thing when you’ve got the ball and without it.”
The manager also stressed that his team is being drilled in clear principles of play, regardless of formation. He described the match at Ibrox as a valuable test in front of a large crowd and praised the improved intensity shown by his players.
“We know what we want to be when we have the ball and how we want it to look when we haven’t as well. Principles are still key at the moment. When one or two more come into the building, we’ll have a look at it. But I do like the way we look at the moment.”
Boro took the lead through set-piece goals from Borges and Fry, but were pegged back late on following a number of second-half changes. Edwards confirmed that recent signing Alfie Jones was handed his first minutes for the club, coming on after the break.
Middlesbrough continue to pursue further additions in the transfer market, with Edwards confirming after the Rangers game that he expects progress on multiple fronts in the coming week.
Writer’s View
There is a clear sense of calm and clarity about Middlesbrough’s preparations. Edwards has leaned into the strengths of the current group, using a system that keeps things structurally sound while allowing flexibility when the ball is in play.
The back three is not a long-term commitment, but it gives Boro a stable platform to build from while the recruitment process continues. Against Swansea, the system seems the most likely starting point.
