Garry Monk has urged Middlesbrough’s supporters to stick with him and his playing squad in their difficult run of form in the Sky Bet Championship, reports the club’s official website.  

Boro have slipped six points behind the Championship’s top-six in recent weeks, having lost three of their last four fixtures.

Monk’s side have suffered defeats to Leeds United, Derby County and Bristol City, which has seen the Teessiders slip to ninth in the table heading into this weekend’s clash with Ipswich Town at the Riverside Stadium.

The 38-year-old was forced to take to social media earlier this week to address Middlesbrough’s frustrated supporters, with plenty of the Riverside faithful calling for Monk to be removed as manager following an underwhelming start to the Championship season.

Previewing Saturday’s clash with Ipswich, Monk delivered another message to Boro’s supporters, urging them to stick with his side during a difficult spell, he said: “Of course we understand the frustration of the fans. But in the tough moments you stick together, and I think they know that.

“Unity has been an important factor for this club over the years. The fans deserve better and we have to give them that this weekend.”

Saturday’s clash with Ipswich is the beginning of a testing run for Boro up until Christmas, with back-to-back away fixtures against Millwall and Sheffield Wednesday set to follow.

The Verdict

Monk finds himself under pressure already at the Riverside Stadium, there is no doubt about that.

However, Boro’s supporters must answer his call for unity, as the only way the club will progress is by sticking together.

Boro are heading into a testing period, and Monk needs results, which will be a lot more difficult to pick up if the fans remain divided.

Boro fans… Let us know your thoughts!