Derby County defender Curtis Davies feels Middlesbrough are struggling as a result of trying to change too much too soon following the departure of Tony Pulis, RamsTV report.
Derby face Middlesbrough at Pride Park this Saturday in a big Championship encounter.
The Rams head into the game coming off the back of another away defeat at Hull City. The club have also dominated the headlines for off-field issues.
(Photo by James Williamson – AMA/Getty Images).
On the pitch, Boro have been disappointing. Jonathan Woodgate’s side have only won twice all season against fellow strugglers Reading and Wigan Athletic by a 1-0 score-line.
Davies told RamsTV how Boro’s troubles may have come from too much change.
I know from what you read Middlesbrough fans were despondent with the way Tony Pulis used to do things. He’s more of a solid manager – keep the clean sheet first and try and nick a goal. I think Woodgate went in to try and change it a little bit too early. I think sometimes the mentality going from one extreme to the other it’s tough to take, even if you do have a full pre-season. I think they’re trying to slowly find exactly where they are and what their balance is.
A game both teams will be desperate to win:
Aside from winning just two games, Boro have really struggled in-front of goal.
The Teesside club have managed just 11 league goals in 14 games. Britt Assombalonga is their top scorer with four strikes – the same tally as Derby’s Martyn Waghorn.
Both clubs will be desperate for a win, and both managers are under pressure.
(Photo by Nathan Stirk/Getty Images).
Phillip Cocu has had to deal with plenty of setbacks after taking over in the summer. Derby’s current home form, however, offers comfort during a testing period.
The Rams have won their past three home games at Pride Park. Their only defeat on home soil this season came in a rather unfortunate 2-1 defeat to Bristol City in August.
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