Middlesbrough could have a big decision on their hands if results don't improve.

The Teessiders have made a horrendous start to the Championship campaign having picked up just 17 points from 19 games so far.

Following a heavy defeat against Leeds United on Saturday, the Reds are sitting just one point above the relegation zone with a tricky run of fixtures coming up throughout December and January.

But a question mark remains over whether Jonathan Woodgate will still be in charge come the New Year.

Reports in The Sun have claimed that the former defender could be sacked and replaced by Neil Warnock, however according to Teesside Live, that is not the case.

However another poor result on Saturday could urge the Middlesbrough board into a decision over Jonathan Woodgate's future.

But who could they consider instead of Neil Warnock? We take a look at some of the contenders.

The former Middlesbrough skipper would take little convincing to take a job at the Riverside.

With a track record including spells with Leicester City, Hull City and Derby County, the 56-year-old has a strong knowledge of the Championship and would certainly hold his own when motivating the team to pick up results.

Just don't mention ostriches around him.

The former defender has enjoyed an excellent start to life in management.

Moore took charge of West Brom when they were all-but relegated from the Premier League and was unfortunate to be sacked with the Baggies firmly in the hunt for promotion last term.

Now with Doncaster Rovers, the 45-year-old who be a strong contender to step back up to the Championship where he proved himself at the Hawthorns.

A manager who is bound to hot property, Middlesbrough would be doing incredibly well to attract the former Brighton boss.

Currently out of work, Hughton is likely to be a contender for a number of jobs in the Premier League and Championship over the coming months - something which is no surprise given his pedigree.

If the Teessiders were to move quickly, appointing Hughton would be a real coup given his CV in the game.

One of English football's hottest prospects at the moment.

Ainsworth has worked wonders with Wycombe Wanderers in League One and is firmly in track to secure promotion to the Championship.

Having already been linked with a move to the Championship, Middlesbrough fans would love the football that Ainsworth would bring to the Riverside Stadium.

We couldn't make a list without having this man on it.

The Spaniard is currently out of work and given his affinity for the club, the area and the supporters, there's a strong chance that Aitor Karanka could be tempted back to the Riverside.

His last spell started by taking over the club when they were in a similar predicament, so who's to say he wouldn't have Middlesbrough back in the Premier League in three seasons?