“I don't want to hear anybody criticise Steve Gibson': Neil Warnock praises Middlesbrough owner and provides encouraging transfer update

The club’s financial accounts for the 2019/20 season were released this week, with the figures showing a big loss of revenue compared to the previous campaign.

This season’s accounts will show even further reductions when they are released next year, due to the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic, yet Gibson has stated the club’s biggest financial risk is 'failing to perform competitively in the league in which it competes'.

When asked about the club’s finances, Warnock replied: “I've just read it myself this morning.

“I don't want to hear anybody criticise Steve Gibson while I'm here.

“I don't know many people who would continue to do what he's doing because of his love for the club. He's an amazing man and I'm really proud to be working for him and to get the support I do.

"The fans should feel the same way. It just shows his commitment to the club and boy at this time, do we need it.”

Warnock admitted the club have had to make cuts over the past year, with Boro’s 2019/20 accounts highlighting the impacts of losing Premier League parachute payments.

As games continue to be played behind closed doors, clubs are also losing money when it comes to gate receipts.

Yet Warnock still believes he can strengthen his squad during the summer transfer window, with Gibson prepared to back his manager.

"We've cut-back quite a lot and he's happy in that respect,” said Warnock.

"He knows there will be a turnaround in the summer as well. He still wants to support me the best he can and he knows I won't spent stupid money.

“That's how we need to go about it. It's a very difficult time for owners, especially here where we rely on our fans, they're the hub of what we do.

"Fingers crossed we can get them back and he can get the support, because that's why he does it. He does it because he enjoys a Saturday afternoon with the fans.”

On transfers, Warnock added: “I've got to try and get the best players that are available, hopefully one or two will be on free transfers. You can pick good players up, everything has changed with the pandemic.

“The recruitment people know what I'm looking for. We have to come up with some answers.

“Steve is going to support me the best he can."

Warnock is also confident he can keep hold of his key players next season, including the likes of academy graduates Dael Fry and Marcus Tavernier.

"I don't think Steve Gibson would sell Dael Fry for any sort of offer,” Warnock added.

"Steve is like me, if I'm managing here he wants me to be successful. He knows Dael Fry is a very important part of that.

"Clubs have had their opportunities in the past and have gone for other players.

"I've said to Dael, if you think you're going anywhere next year forget it pal, I'm here, you're here.”

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