Middlesbrough will need their experienced players to step up if they're to improve their poor form in the league.

The Teessiders have struggled since Jonathan Woodgate took over as manager, winning just twice in 16 games in the Championship.

That run of form - which includes a current run of nine games without a victory - has seen Woodgate's side drop to 22nd in the league, meaning that a battle to avoid relegation may well be on the cards.

One man who has been a regular part of Middlesbrough's side this term is Jonny Howson.

A midfielder by trade, Howson has often been tasked with filling in at right back due to Anfernee Dijksteel's lack of form since moving from Charlton.

But how has the former Leeds United fan fared for Middlesbrough this term?

Here we take a look at the midfielder's statistics from this season.

Jonny Howson has been a first team regular under Jonathan Woodgate.

Making 12 appearances in total, Howson has featured nine times as a right back or right wing-back, showing that his versatility has been a huge boost for Middlesbrough this term.

Despite playing outside of his natural position the midfielder has certainly impressed.

Howson has average 1.4 tackles per game and 1.2 interceptions per game - a decent record for a player being used in a more defence role.

However it's going forward where his impact has been felt.

Can you name every Middlesbrough player of the year from the last 15 years? Have a go and find out!

 

The 31-year-old has provided three assists for his Middlesbrough teammates, which comes as a result of his tireless work ethic and his impressive passing success rate.

Howson has completed an impressive 76.1% of his passes this term, while also averaging 0.8 key passes in the 12 matches that he's played.

If Jonny Howson can continue being one of Middlesbrough's more reliable men, then the club will be in good hands to move themselves out of the relegation dogfight.