Paddy McNair's message to Tony Pulis as his Middlesbrough woes continue
McNair has struggled to hold down a regular spot in Pulis' squad since sealing a £5million move from Sunderland in the summer, with the Boro boss preferring other options over the Northern Irish international.
And when he has featured for Middlesbrough this term, the ex-Manchester United youngster has often been utilised as a makeshift full-back.
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Hide AdHis international boss, however, has deployed McNair in his preferred role in the centre of the park - and the player himself has reminded -Pulis that this is where he feels he can shine for both club and country.
“I think that’s my best position,” he said.
“I felt I played well and helped the team win and that’s always the main thing.
“I love playing for Northern Ireland and I thought I played well over both games and I felt quite fit as well considering the club situation.
“I just have to keep my head down at club level and keep working away."
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Hide AdMcNair started in his preferred position against Estonia - but was guilty of missing a golden chance when he headed over the bar from point-blank range.
And the 23-year-old joked that the groundsman were to blame for his miss.
“He made the pitch too firm,” he laughed.
“It’s just one of them, where I probably thought I’d scored before I headed it, but hopefully I’ll get the next one that comes my way.”