Middlesbrough are on course for a speedy return to the Premier League after their relegation in 2017.

Tony Pulis' side narrowly missed out last season, falling to Steve Bruce's Aston Villa in the play-off semi-finals.

This time, it feels like Pulis has had a further pre-season to drill his ideas into his players and so far it is paying dividends.

Middlesbrough sit well in the Championship, having matched Leeds for results.

Most recently, Boro beat Ipswich 2-0 at Portman Road, with goals from Mo Besic and Stewart Downing.

Below Pulis' side however, are many teams who also feel they will be in with a serious chance of promotion, such as the three relegated from the Premier League, as well as Sheffield United, Brentford and Derby.

So, what could make or break Boro's promotion push? Here, we look at THREE factors...

You don't have to be a Football League expert to know that the foundation of Tony Pulis' sides is a solid defence. So far this season, that is certainly the case.

Middlesbrough have been phenomenal at the back, conceding just four goals in the league. Part of that is testament to the settled back four Pulis has, and the stat should not be underestimated and will certainly go a significant way in the promotion race should they continue in this vein.

The main reason for Middlesbrough's early successes has likely been the coach, Tony Pulis.

The defensive mastermind has struck the perfect balance between attack and defence, and the players are, thus far, carrying his instructions out down to a tee.

A common facet of promotion winning sides is striking a balance between youth and experience.

Some teams have experience, but with this come a lack of new ideas, whereas some are too young and are not mentally able to see out certain games.

Middlesbrough have players who can say they have 'been there, done that' in terms of promotion, whilst also having youngsters such as Dael Fry who are growing by the week.

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