A gloomy time to be a Middlesbrough fan as they endure the next twelve months in the Championship, having suffered relegation from the Premier League last term. 

However, it may well be a fortunate excuse for the club to redevelop and start from scratch, especially with Garry Monk in charge now, who definitely acknowledges what it takes in this division.

He has already stated who doesn't feature in his plans, firstly mentioning the fan-favourite Stewart Downing, who is seemingly past it from Monk's recognition and a departure from Teeside is highly expected this summer.

Discussing transfers in the opposite direction, a huge overhaul isn't needed. Perhaps a striker and maybe a defender to replace the likely outgoing Ben Gibson, who has been linked with big moves to the Premier League.

So Garry Monk should utilise the players already at his disposal in the coming months to really recognise their true potential and ability, which may be useful in Middlesbrough's Championship campaign.

Here are TWO 'Boro fringe players who deserve a chance to shine in the club's pre-season schedule.....

Rudy Gestede

Having arrived at the Riverside Stadium in the winter transfer window for Middlesbrough, striker Rudy Gestede really hasn't made early impressions at the club in his initial six months so far.

The 28-year-old has bagged just one Premier League goal and is heavily criticised by supporters for his lack of finishing, which may be the reason as to why manager Garry Monk is aiming to attract another forward to the squad this summer.

Although, Gestede needs to take advantage of their build-up prior to the 2017/18 Championship season and if he can gather momentum then there is no reason why he shouldn't become Boro's first-choice striker.

Dimitrios Konstantopoulos

The goalkeeper has often played understudy at Middlesbrough since making the move from his homeland of Greece to north-east England, but he may finally have his chance to make an impact in the team's pre-season friendlies.

Konstantopoulos is more or less first-choice at this moment in time thanks to the departures of experienced duo Brad Guzan and Victor Valdes.

Garry Monk's men have a number of games to prepare for the season and the Greek 'keeper should be allowed the opportunity in matches against the likes of Rochdale and Mansfield to prove why he could be number one.

Middlesbrough supporters, what do you make of these two outcasts? Do they need pre-season to re-enter the first-team fold? Let us get your thoughts in the comment section below!