Plenty ahead for Boro's new gaffer to tackle to ensure a pitch perfect summer of preparation

MIDDLESBROUGH'S search for the next head coach is under way after last week's decision to sack Michael Carrick.

- By CRAIG JOHNS

Boro will begin their interview process this week and currently have no preferred candidate for the role.

While certain names continue to be linked, it is understood the club have received many applications, with some of the other applicants, which might be considered more left field, described as 'excellent.

With that in mind, the club heads into the interview stage of the process open-minded and ready to hear the plans and strategies of all of their potential candidates before making a final decision on who they want.

For whoever ends up getting the job, a big summer awaits as they head into their first season in charge, tasked with getting the club back into contention for a top-six finish.

We look at how the perfect summer looks to help make that a reality.

A SUCCESSFUL TRANSFER WINDOW

Key to almost every summer, regardless of whether there’s a new head coach or not, is a successful transfer window. Boro lost five loanees at the end of last season and, while only two of them really made any significant impact, it only intensifies their need to strengthen this summer after a poor season.

While, with the right direction, there is plenty of existing talent for the new head coach to work with.

Long before the decision to sack Carrick, the club had already started planning their summer recruitment drive and identified five key positions - right-back, centre-back, centre midfield, winger and striker - they wish to strengthen. Their plans aren't expected to change even after the change in head coach.

If Boro can strengthen the squad that the new head coach has to work with, with clear gaps existing in their arsenal in the second half of last season, it will help the new man immeasurably. The earlier deals are done the better too - although often patience is required when chasing a certain calibre of player whose current club would rather they not leave.