Middlesbrough fans react to Jonny Howson’s display in narrow victory over Wigan

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Jonathan Woodgate got his first win as Middlesbrough manager last night with a 1-0 victory over Wigan Athletic at the Riverside Stadium.

Britt Assombalonga provided the goal which turned a drab affair Boro’s way, as Woodgate grapples with moving the style away from Tony Pulis’ awful tactics.

Getting the confidence and momentum to do that while using a younger squad has proved a tough ask so far for Woodgate, but he will hope that last night’s win can provide a springboard.

He has made the bold tactical switch to put Jonny Howson at right back, while using Paddy McNair – who can play in midfield but would perhaps be a more natural defensive choice – in the heart of the engine room.

And it seems to be working, with many Boro fans online praising the performance of the former Leeds man in defence – and it was he who swung the ball in to allow Assombalonga to score the winning goal.

The supporters are keen to see widespread improvement across the pitch but the performance of Howson last night caught their eye, with the consensus being that he elevated himself above the mediocrity across the pitch.

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