Middlesbrough step up Championship return with friendly defeat at Newcastle United

Jonathan Woodgate’s side fell to a 3-2 defeat at the Premier League club’s training base, despite George Saville and Britt Assbalonga handing Boro a two-goal lead.

Woodgate used the opportunity to hand a number of his players over an hour on the pitch as fitness levels continue to build.

Boro will face a further friendly fixture before the campaign resumes against Swansea on Saturday, June 20.