Speaking after the victory Middlesbrough Neil Warnock, praised defender Grant Hall for his efforts in a back three, and revealed: “I think with Grant, the injury he’s had and the time he’s been out, it wouldn’t be fair to put him in a back four. In three he’s calm, collected, he wins headers, he talks, everything I want really.
“I was really pleased for him that he came through like that because it’s been a long injury.”
The result saw Boro keep their push for the play-offs alive, and they'll head into their weekend clash against Reading just three points away from sixth place Bournemouth.
Middlesbrough have an excellent record against the Royals, and are unbeaten in their last eight meetings, winning seven of the clashes, and will be looking for more of the same at the Madejski tomorrow afternoon.
Here are today's biggest transfer stories and the latest team news involving Middlesbrough and the rest of the Championship, ahead of the midweek action:
1. Cherries starlet on Arsenal's radar
Arsenal are believed to be monitoring Bournemouth wonderkid Ajani Burchall, who has turned down a scholarship deal with the club. The 16-year-old made his Cherries debut last December in a 5-0 win over Huddersfield Town. (The Sun) Photo: Richard Heathcote
2. Henry closes in on Cherries job
Ex-Arsenal star Thierry Henry looks set to become Bournemouth's next manager, with his odds being slashed to 1/7 following speculation over a move to the Championship side. He's currently at the helm of MLS side CF Montreal (SkyBet) Photo: Michael Reaves
3. Watford lose Deeney to injury
Watford's push for promotion has taken a hit, with key striker Troy Deeney suffering an Achilles injury. He scored seven goals in 14 Championship starts before picking up the injury against Coventry City earlier in the month. (BBC Sport) Photo: Clive Mason
4. Hornets chiefs back Pedro for stardom
Watford's sporting director Cristiano Giaretta has claimed star forward Joao Pedro is "suitable for a top club", after a strong 2020/21 campaign thus far. The Brazilian youngster has netted seven goals in 24 league appearances. (Sport Witness) Photo: Marc Atkins