'To lead any club is something to be proud of' says ex-Leeds and Sheffield United boss after spell in Middlesbrough hot seat

Warnock hasn’t been on the touchline for his side’s last two league games after testing positive for COVID-19, but will return for next week’s meeting with Barnsley at the Riverside.

Despite his absence, Warnock has been in constant communication with his staff and spoke to the players while they were in London for Saturday’s 1-1 draw at QPR.

The Boro boss returned to Rockliffe training ground on Friday after self-isolating for 10 days and will take charge of the team again on Monday.

When asked if Warnock was in contact with his players and staff at QPR, Blackwell said: “He did, before, during, after, on the way up here now, on the way out there, on the bus.

“Look, he's back. You can tell. He was quieter in the early part of the week and late last week but today and yesterday he was very much at it.”

“He's got to beat my record now, unbeaten at Middlesbrough."

Blackwell, who has previously managed clubs like Leeds and Sheffield United, was asked if he’s enjoyed leading the team.

“Yeah, I've had 400 odd games as a manager at big clubs like Leeds and Sheffield United,” he replied.

“To lead any club is always something to be proud about. It's not something I haven't done before, it was just a case of stepping in and Neil is back Monday.”

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