Middlesbrough’s heroes of Old Trafford come back to earth against Charlton after win at Manchester United

Aitor Karanka faces the task of bringing his Old Trafford heroes back to earth today.
By Chris Bell
Published 30th Oct 2015, 08:30 BST
Middlesbrough goalkeeper Tomas Mejias (left) celebrates saving the decisive penalty with teammates at Old TraffordMiddlesbrough goalkeeper Tomas Mejias (left) celebrates saving the decisive penalty with teammates at Old Trafford
Middlesbrough goalkeeper Tomas Mejias (left) celebrates saving the decisive penalty with teammates at Old Trafford

Middlesbrough’s staff got back to work today at Rockliffe ahead of a return to Championship action against Charlton Athletic at the Riverside tomorrow (kick off 3pm).

Boro are, of course, still on a high after Wednesday night’s penalty shoot-out success against Manchester United.

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It set up a Capital One Cup quarter-final tie with Everton, on Tuesday December 1.

Before they can look forward to a live televised showdown with more Premier League opponents, the Teessiders are back playing in the competition that matters the most – the Sky Bet Championship.

And Karanka stressed the matched against the Addicks tomorrow and Rotherham United on Tuesday are the be-all and end-all for Boro.

“We have to play Charlton now,” he said.

“If we lose to Charlton and Rotherham on Tuesday then Wednesday night is nothing.”

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Karanka spoke before the game at Old Trafford about the league being the priority, hence his changes for the midweek tie.

He is certain to inform his players as much before they take on the Addicks and then the Millers, also at home.

The team which held United for 120 minutes before winning on penalties is likely to undergo surgery.

Tomas Mejias, the club’s cup goalkeeper, will return to the bench tomorrow despite his spot-kick heroics, saving two penalties.

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Former Hartlepool United stopper Dimi Konstantopoulos will resume goalkeeping duties.

New midfield signing Bruno Zuculini, brought in on loan from Manchester City, could be in line for his debut.

Adam Clayton, a late sub on Wednesday, will return to the starting XI alongside Grant Leadbitter meaning Emilio Nsue will step down to the bench.

Cristian Stuani (groin and hamstring tears) is out for at least five weeks while fellow striker David Nugent is pressing Kike for a position up front.

Boro’s Capital One Cup quarter-final with Everton has been selected for live TV coverage on Sky Sports.

The tie will take place at the Riverside Stadium on Tuesday December 1 (kick-off 7.45pm).

Related topics:Manchester UnitedCharltonMiddlesbroughOld TraffordTeessidersEverton