Jonathan Woodgate has this message for his Middlesbrough squad ahead of Huddersfield Town test

Boro, five points clear of the Championship drop zone, host Huddersfield on Boxing Day at the Riverside (KO 3pm) with Danny Cowley’s side a place and point above Boro in 19th.

Woodgate hopes the resurgence will continue but he is expecting a difficult afternoon against Cowley’s side.

Woodgate said: “I am pleased with the form at home, we are performing well.

“It will be another tough game against Huddersfield.

“Danny Cowley has done well since he came in, I have watched a lot of games. It will be a difficult task.

“The injury situation has given the young players a chance, you don’t know if they will be good enough until you put them in.

“Djed Spence has done well. It’s good for those below him to see as well, if they do well they get a chance.

“They have experienced players behind them too, encouraging the youngsters and setting standards on the training pitch and in the building.

“At times it has been tough, the supporters have been fantastic. Can’t speak highly enough of them. I am really pleased with them.”

Meanwhile, Middlesbrough have announced the shock departure of Head of Recruitment Operations Adrian Bevington – just a week before the January transfer window opens.

The recruitment chief, who has held the role for 18-months, will officially leaving the club at the end of December.

Bevington is not expected to be replaced at this stage.

A Boro statement read: “Middlesbrough Football Club can confirm that Head of Recruitment Operations Adrian Bevington will part company with the club at the end of the month.”

Adrian Bevington added: "It has been a pleasure to work with Steve Gibson, Neil Bausor and everyone at the club.

“I’d like to wish Jonathan Woodgate, his staff, the players and supporters every success in the future."

The club’s chief executive Neil Bausor said: "On behalf of everyone at the club I’d like to thank Adrian for his work over the past 18 months and wish him well for the future.”