Middlesbrough’s approach could hinge on Leeds United’s next move.
Middlesbrough chairman Steve Gibson (centre)
Chairman Steve Gibson will assess Middlesbrough’s managerial options at the end of the season, The Sun reports (10 May Goals pullout, page 6).
Gibson placed Steve Agnew in temporary charge following Aitor Karanka’s March departure, however the Boro assistant boss has won only one of his nine fixtures culminating in the Teessiders’ relegation from the Premier League.
That, The Sun reports, looks set to dash Agnew’s chances of landing the role on a permanent basis and could in turn spell bad news for Leeds United.
Out-of-work trio Nigel Pearson, Ryan Giggs and Alan Pardew are each listed as candidates for the Riverside post, although it is claimed that Whites boss Garry Monk could also come into consideration – providing he leaves Elland Road.
Monk led Leeds to an unexpected seventh-placed finish in his first season in charge of the Championship side, but has yet to be offered an extension to his contract which expires next month.
Leeds United manager Gary Monk
Reports last month suggested the 38-year-old was on the verge of being sacked after Leeds dropped out of the play-off positions with three games to spare, although The Sun reported on Monday that a new five-year deal is now being prepared.
Monk’s deal is thought to contain a one-year extension option, however, which, if triggered by Leeds, would likely deter Middlesbrough – at least for the time being.
Middlesbrough caretaker manager Steve Agnew
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