'A good way to start the season, or a sign of dreadful things to come': Middlesbrough fans react to Carabao Cup draw

Neil Warnock’s side are set to face the League One club on Saturday, September 5, yet the fixture could be brought forward a week due to international fixtures.

The Teessiders returned to pre-season training on Monday, and Warnock will want to make more signings before the start of Boro’s Championship campaign on September 12.

Defender Grant Hall is the only player to arrive at the Riverside so far this summer, while several senior players have departed.

And while some supporters were pleased to receive a home tie against a lower league club, others are remaining cautious – especially after Boro were knocked out of the competition by then-League Two side Crewe on penalties last season.

Here’s how some fans reacted to the draw on social media:

@andyrubble666: I would say we'd play the kids but given the size of our squad the kids will be needed for the league

@wilsoncgp: Lower league team at home. Could be a good way to start the season... or a sign of the dreadful things to come.

@cbstar82: Home to Shrewsbury good draw!

@Fr33d3m25: Sad that I’m not one bit confident

@1963RedRum: Should be a win for the Boro.

@DavidHindmarsh7: Will never fathom why people actually want us to lose cup games. Winning breeds winning

@jackydobson4: Shrewsbury to start the season.

@andygranville: Out on penalties probably

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