Neil Warnock thanks Middlesbrough supporters and stresses their importance at a difficult time

The Middlesbrough boss hasn’t experienced a match with fans inside the Riverside since he took charge of the club last year, yet he’s regularly taken time out to speak with them via Zoom.

This week Warnock was a surprise guest as Middlesbrough Disabled Supporters Association held a virtual awards ceremony.

Paddy McNair and Marcus Tavernier received the Player of the Year and Young Player of the Year awards respectively and took part in a Q&A session with those involved.

When asked by the Mail about the importance of speaking with fans, Warnock said: “I think it’s massive, especially at this time where there is so much depression around.

“If I can make somebody laugh or acknowledge the support they give us, I think it’s only fair really.

“I’m very fortunate to be in this position where I can talk to people like that and try and give them an insight as to what’s happening behind the scenes.

“Every supporters branch is so important to us and the sooner we get them all back the better, it will be nice.

“I’m hoping before I call it a day I get full houses at the Riverside.”

Warnock is feeling confident as we move into the second half of the season, especially after making five new signings in January.

"I’m looking forward to it more since the window and we got the players in,” added Warnock.

“We have a good squad and I do feel now we are a lot more potent than a couple of weeks ago.”

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