Neil Warnock's biggest priorities at Middlesbrough ahead of Stoke City clash

We take a closer look at some of the things Warnock will need to be working on with his new players as Boro fight to avoid relegation from the Championship.

Settle on a formation

We’re just eight games away from the end of the season and it’s still unclear what Boro’s strongest formation or starting XI is.

That was highlighted again during Saturday’s 3-0 defeat by Swansea City, as Boro started the game in a 4-2-3-1 system before switching to a back three with wing-backs at half time.

Ahead of a crucial run of fixtures, Boro’s players need clarity when it comes to their individual roles and responsibilities.

In particular, the Teessiders need to be far tighter at the back following the weekend’s horror show, when lively Swansea frontman Andre Ayew, Rhian Brewster and Aldo Kalulu ran riot.

Whether he opts for a back four or a back three, one of Warnock’s first priorities will be to install some defensive structure like he’s done at previous clubs.

Boro can’t afford another start like Saturday’s.

Get out-of-contract player onside

Warnock has inherited a situation where seven Boro first-teamers will see their contracts expire at the end of this month.

We already know that Daniel Ayala won’t play for the Teessiders again as he’s still struggling with an ankle issue, and has decided not to play beyond the end of his contract on June 30.

Yet there are six other players, Adam Clayton, Jonny Howson, Rudy Gestede, Ryan Shotton, George Friend and Marvin Johnson, who will also see their current deals lapse next week.

All six will be available for Saturday’s trip to Stoke, and they can sign short-term agreements to complete the campaign which is set to finish on July 22.

“We’re still negotiating with maybe one or two – all the rest have signed,” said former head coach Jonathan Woodgate on Saturday when asked if the aforementioned players would finish the season.

All of them could have a part to play during a congested fixture list and Warnock will need them all onside.

Utilise Boro’s youth and energy

In his first Boro press conference Warnock spoke about players’ responsibilities off the ball, emphercising there is no excuse for not tracking back and playing your part.

He also spoke about getting players on the ball who are good on the ball, those who can make things happen in the final third.

Manchester City loanee Patrick Roberts certainly falls into that category, but what is the best way to maximise the playmaker’s pace and trickery? Playing just off a striker, or out on the flank?

The energy and youth of Hayden Coulson and Djed Spence will also be key, yet the pair have both operated in different wide roles this season.

Further forward, Warnock has the likes of Marcus Tavernier, Lewis Wing and Ravel Morrison at his disposal.

All are creative players with plenty of ability that needs to be harnessed.