Hellberg giving squad freedom to flourish

MORGAN

- By CRAIG JOHNS

Morgan Whittaker celebrates against Rotherham PICTURE: PA

(PA)

Whittaker has explained why he believes Middlesbrough players have taken so quickly to Kim Hellberg and his methods.The new Boro boss enjoyed an excellent start at the Riverside, winning his first four games in charge. What followed was a frustrating winless four-game period, though Boro largely dominated all four of those games, but couldn't put the ball in the back of the net.

In changing their fortunes and ending the run emphatically on Sunday, Boro moved back to second in the Championship with a 4-0 victory over Southampton, as Hellberg continues to make an impact.

What's been particularly impressive, despite arriving at the end November and therefore having limited training time during the festive period, is how quickly Hellberg has moulded Boro into a team of his image.

It is in contrast to the defensive-minded focus of his predecessor Rob Edwards.