Middlesbrough were just 90 minutes away from the Premier League last season but a disappointing display against Norwich meant a seventh season in the Championship.

Coming so close last season as well as signing 10 players this summer means that they are one of early favourites for promotion.

Boro boss Aitor Karanka has moulded and built his own team over the past two seasons, and he will be hoping this is the season where they can finally attain promotion to the top-flight.

To win the Championship, clubs need the whole team to come together and create a consistent winning formula, but there are some players who can be more important than others....

Here are THREE players who will be key to Boro's success this season.....

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PRESS THE IMAGE BELOW TO SEE THE THREE PLAYERS

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1) Grant Leadbitter

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunderland academy graduate Grant Leadbitter caught the eye of fans and the media last season thanks to his 13 goals. While his goals were important for Boro last season, his overall play and leadership were just as, if not more, crucial.

The goals dried up for Leadbitter after January last year but he was a leader in the pitch, making sure they were organised in every position.

This summer Aitor Karanka made him club captain and he will be expecting the midfielder to continue to lead the Teessiders, this time to the Premier League.

2) Daniel Ayala

 

Daniel Ayala has spent some time in England with Liverpool, Norwich and Nottingham Forest but could never establish himself.

When he joined Middlesbrough not many expected him to become the defender that he has. He has become one of the best centre-backs in the division and was a crucial cog in the best defence in the Championship last year.

As well as being one of the clubs best defenders, the Spaniard is also another leader in the pitch for Aitor Karanka. Two things which make him a key player at the Riverside.

3) Stewart Downing

Few would have predicted that Stewart Downing would be playing the Championship this season after being arguably West Ham's best player last season.

But Karanka brought him back to Teesside and he has already created more goal scoring opportunities than any other Boro this season. Having a player of his quality and pedigree to call upon would be crucial for any side.

If he can continue creating chances then Kike, David Nugent and Cristhian Stuani score the goals that, without Patrick Bamford, Middlesbrough lacked last season. 

Middlesbrough fans...Who do you think will be key for your side this season? Can you finally get promoted back to the Premier League? Tell us what you think below.