Sammy Silvera always works his socks off – but it was still something of a disappointment to see Matt Targett and Delano Burgzorg taken off at the interval against Wrexham.
True, Burgzorg had offered nothing to the game at that stage. But there was always a chance that he might have started to pull up his socks following a half-time rollocking.
Wrexham apart, Burgzorg had been showing much improved form as a left-sided attacker, while Targett has been a breath of fresh air at left-back.
In fact the duo had been promising to solve the selection problems on the left-hand side which Middlesbrough had been struggling to overcome for some time.
Targett has looked a superb loan great signing, and used his vast experience to fill a gaping gap which has been evident for some time.
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OK, Ryan Giles did a fine job on the left-hand side in his first stint on Teesside, but not so great second time around.
There has hardly been a settled formation on the left for some time, creating the argument that this has been one of Boro’s weaker areas for some time.
In fact Rob Edwards was so confident in the impact that Targett would make that Neto Borges was allowed to go out on loan to Bristol City.
With more than 200 appearances under his belt in all competitions, Targett knows the job inside out. He also knows what is needed to win promotion, having helped Fulham to reach the Premier League a few years ago.
Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson (left) tries to help up Middlesbrough's Matt Targett
Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson (left) tries to help up Middlesbrough's Matt Targett (Image: PA)
The great thing about Matt is that he is not just an orthodox defender, but he’s very creative when on the ball.
He’s a great passer in finding team-mates in attacking positions and, as we saw at Preston, he can also score goals.
The word “passing” is particularly appropriate on the left flank at the moment because Burgzorg has delivered more telling passes already this season than he did in the whole of last season.
Somebody has had a word with him on the training ground and the penny has dropped. He’s got the pace, the ability to find space, and strength on the ball. He must learn to use it every week, not just occasionally.
When Burgzorg is searing down the left and picking out men in the middle he is looking a different player.
But he must start to be consistent because the team can greatly benefit. His first half effort against Wrexham was not good enough.
When Burgzorg is cutting the mustard, the whole balance of the side looks so much better.