Kim Hellberg is set to meet with Middlesbrough’s hierarchy next week to discuss the club’s plans for the January transfer window — but he is keen to stress one key point: his priority is developing the players already at his disposal.
In his first match in charge, the Swedish coach surprised many by giving Alex Bangura a rare start at left-back, while youngster Archie Baptiste made his debut late on. Hellberg will also have at least one ‘new’ option available in January, with summer signing Adilson Malanda eligible to play once the EFL registration window reopens.
Looking ahead to his first away fixture at Hull City on Friday, Hellberg said:
“Kieran Scott (director of football) has been great in terms of communication and asking the right questions. We’ve had good discussions, but for me it’s important to focus on the players we already have, give them opportunities, and not rush into looking elsewhere.
“My job is to help the players here improve and show what they can do. With trust, many of them can make progress they maybe didn’t previously believe possible. They deserve every chance before we start talking about new signings or external solutions.
“Of course, recruitment matters too, but that comes later. Kieran and I, along with others, will speak more about it next week.”
Meanwhile, Hull City will decide in the new year what to do about left-back Brandon Williams and fellow left-sided defender James Furlong, both of whom currently remain on the fringes.