The 'core principles' that could help give Edwards the edge

IT has been quite an eventful few years for Rob Edwards. He may be still only 42 but already he has seen all the football has to offer - the highs as well as the lows.

- By STUART JAMIESON

The former Luton Town manager is believed to be one of the leading contenders to replace Michael Carrick in the Middlesbrough hotseat after the club took the decision to part company with the ex-Manchester United star at the start of June.

The Teessiders have big ambitions to return to the Premier League in the very near future, with whoever they appoint under no illusions over what will be expected from them. Therefore it’s no surprise to see those with experience of winning promotion from the Championship linked with the job, with Edwards joined by the likes of Steve Cooper and Sean Dyche in the bookies’ shortlist.

Edwards guided Luton to the Premier League for the first time in 2023 after beating Coventry City in the play-off final, and bloodied a few elite noses during their one season in the top flight. The gap proved too much in the end, but the Hatters made a good fist of survival, finishing just six points away from safety.