Middlesbrough were knocked out of the FA Cup on Saturday as they lost 2-0 at home to Chelsea with goals from Romelu Lukaku and Hakim Ziyech sending the Blues through.
Meanwhile, they also lost ground in the race for the play-offs in the league as Sheffield United moved up to fifth with their 2-0 win over Barnsley.
However, Boro do have either one or two games in hand over all four teams currently occupying those places.
There will be a chance for Chris Wilder to take a step back and evaluate his side with the international break putting EFL Championship action on hold for the next week.
Middlesbrough return to action on Saturday, April 2 when they host Peterborough United.
After that, they will have just eight games remaining in the league season as they continue their push towards promotion and the Premier League.
For days after their match with the Posh they host Fulham in what is sure to be a pivotal encounter.
Away from the action on the pitch, here are the transfer stories making the headlines across the EFL Championship on Monday morning, including a former Boro boss who could make a shock switch from Blackburn Rovers to league rivals Stoke City:
5. Leeds keen on Downes if Phillips departs
Leeds United are eyeing up Swansea City star Flynn Downes as a possible replacement for Kalvin Phillips should the England star move on this summer (HITC) | Getty Images
6. Rovers target wants to stick with current club
Blackburn Rovers target Marcus Harness has revealed he wants to remain at Portsmouth next season (The News, Portsmouth) | Getty Images
7. Tigers boss to sit down with out of contract players
Hull City boss Shota Arveladze says he will use the international break to hold more discussions with players who are out of contract this summer (HullLive) | Getty Images
8. Potters could swoop for rivals’ manager
Blackburn Rovers boss Tony Mowbray and Derby County boss Wayne Rooney are both on Stoke City’s managerial shortlist (The Sun) | Getty Images