Three things we learnt from Manchester United’s 2-1 victory over Middlesbrough

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Middlesbrough have enough ability to survive

Middlesbrough had already secured well-earned points on their travels at Arsenal and Manchester City and were on course to spring another surprise here until United’s late show. Defeat in such circumstances can be hard to take – particularly when Boro had come so close to executing their game-plan – but Aitor Karanka’s men needn’t lose heart. As Hull City’s struggles have illustrated, the jump from the Championship to the Premier League cannot be overstated. However, Boro have generally acquitted themselves well this season, as the draws at Arsenal and City demonstrated. Though they are only four points above the relegation zone, they have done enough to suggest they can avoid an immediate return to the Championship. The Teesiders boast the best defensive record of any club in the bottom half and if high-profile loanee Alvaro Negredo can rediscover his scoring boots, then their survival should be guaranteed by May.