'Warnock clearly gambled': Middlesbrough fans react as Jonny Howson replaces Britt Assombalonga as club captain

Boro boss Neil Warnock confirmed that Howson will wear the armband instead of Britt Assombalonga, who was given the role at the start of the campaign but struggled this term.

“I think the time has come now for Jonny to take the reins,” said Warnock after his side’s 1-1 draw with Cardiff.

"I had a chat with Britt and he understood and agreed in the circumstances and just to concentrate on his game really.”

Here’s how some fans reacted to the news on social media:

@Smithy_MFC84: Unsurprising move really. Understand why Britt was entrusted with the role originally, but it’s not had the desired effect. Take the burden from him, let him play free of pressure, and give the armband to someone who is comfortable with it, and frankly more influential. #Boro

@iRussJ: Britt should never have been given it. Warnock clearly gambled at trying to get a tune out of him and give him some responsibility, but unsurprisingly, it’s made no difference. At least now a real captain has the armband.

@ar28071966: A real Captain is a leader. Howson isn’t. a leader.

@studdy2k: Gamble to try get him playing, didn’t work, like Woody used to come out each week and say he’s my striker, he misses pen he scores the next one. Think Pulis actually got the best out of him and he was grilling him most weeks

@Boro_Brick_Road: I can see why Warnock gave Britt the armband, thinking the extra responsibility might get the best out of him - but unfortunately it didn’t work. Britt is just one of those coasters who will do it when he can be bothered. Howson is a proper captain & team player

@Foggs101: 100 per cent right decision. But 100 per cent wrong to then pick Britt and watch him do nothing for 70 mins. Times up don't have him anywhere near the squad for rest of the season, let's go with whoever is fit from Tav, Bolassie, Marv, Kebano and Fletch

@paulymc1982: About time. Howson should have been captain from the start of the season.

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