Should Middlesbrough boss Garry Monk move for departing Leeds defender Charlie Taylor?
Former Leeds manager Garry Monk
Middlesbrough unveiled Garry Monk as head coach yesterday – and the new boss quickly found himself quizzed over his departure from former club Leeds United.
Monk will face Leeds twice next season and his decision to join another Championship club took many by surprise.
He will receive a mixed reception on his return to Elland Road, with fans appreciative of what he did for the club, but frustrated at his resignation and decision to move to Teesside.
One player Monk could sign to reduce the flak he will receive, is current Whites defender Charlie Taylor.
Taylor is out of contract at Leeds at the end of this month, and is in the doghouse at Elland Road after refusing to play on the last game of the season.
Liverpool’s Georginio Wijnaldum in action with Leeds’ Charlie Taylor
This was a move which angered Monk at the time, but if anybody will have cause to reflect and forgive over the past few weeks, it is Middlesbrough’s new boss.
Middlesbrough’s first choice left-back is Fabio da Silva, who played well despite their relegation, but may not be the answer.
Last season he made 24 out of 38 appearances. Over his career the most he has managed in a single season is 28, a long way short of the 46 game season ahead.
Middlesbrough’s Fabio
Charlie Taylor would be an ideal option to share the load with the 26-year-old Brazilian, and he may have to consider it.
Taylor had his heart set on a Premier League move, but one has not yet materialised.
Garry Monk spoke at his press conference about his confidence that Middlesbrough can clinch promotion to the top flight.
He could easily sell this vision to Taylor and convince him they are his best option.
And when Middlesbrough do visit Elland Road, Monk would be only the second most unpopular figure.
Leeds’ Charlie Taylor look dejected
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