The former Chelsea and Nottingham Forest man returned to Middlesbrough in January after a loan spell in the 2014/15 season.
Middlesbrough’s Patrick Bamford and Derby County’s Raul Albentosa in action
Middlesbrough forward Patrick Bamford is feeling optimistic ahead of the 2017/18 season and believes that as the Boro squad have the knowhow to get out of the Championship, there’s no reason why they can’t challenge, as reported by Middlesbrough’s official website.
The 23-year-old is in his second spell with the club after signing on a permanent deal in January, with his first being a highly successful loan spell in the 2014/15 season which resulted in the then Chelsea player scoring 19 goals in 44 matches during his time at The Riverside Stadium.
Middlesbrough’s Patrick Bamford goes down as he is in action with Liverpool’s Dejan Lovren
Boro, now managed by former Leeds United boss Garry Monk, will be expected to challenge for automatic promotion following their recent Premier League relegation, and – so far – the club have yet to lose any of their key players.
Speaking about the upcoming season, Bamford was full of praise for the set of players currently at the club, and is firmly of the belief that the experience within the side will put them in a great position when it comes to get out of the league in the desired manner.
Middlesbrough’s Patrick Bamford and Cardiff City’s Ben Turner in action
“We’ve got a strong core here,” Bamford said to Boro’s official website. “The majority of the players here know what it’s like to be in the Championship and what it takes to get out of it.
“I think that sets us in good stead and on a personal note I’m excited.”
Patrick Bamford celebrates after scoring the first goal for Middlesbrough
How Monk strengthens Boro remains to be seen, though it appears that he wishes to re-unite with Swansea City defender Kyle Bartley, as reported by the Yorkshire Evening Post, with the duo working together with tremendous effect at Leeds last season.
Boro finished their Premier League season in 19th place and 12 points from safety, despite the fact that at one point – while Aitor Karanka was in charge – the club had the fifth best defensive record in the top flight, but their profligacy in front of goal cost them dearly.
Middlesbrough’s Patrick Bamford and Nottingham Forest’s Michael Mancienne
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