Middlesbrough boss Jonathan Woodgate has revealed that he will be sticking with a back three moving forward despite his side losing to West Brom yesterday.

After a series of poor performances in the early part of the campaign, the new manager made a decision to alter the formation against the Baggies.

And, whilst they did fall to a late defeat, Boro were much improved in terms of their overall display. They were sharper on the ball and played with more purpose but keeper Sam Johnstone kept the hosts out with a few good stops.

Speaking to Teesside Live, Woodgate was pleased with how his players responded and revealed that he felt the tactical tweak was necessary.

"I think it suits our players. I've looked at the players and as a manager you need to realise that system wasn't bearing fruit. As a manager I have to look at that and not be pig-headed. You have to pick and change and look at our players, it suits what we've got."

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The result leaves the north-east outfit in a tough position, as they are just one point and one place above the relegation zone.

The verdict

You have to admire Woodgate for this because sometimes you feel the manager's are too stubborn for their own good.

However, he has recognised that and made a change and whilst they didn't get the result they wanted, they competed extremely well against arguably the best side in the division.

Of course, the position they are in isn't acceptable but that has at least given them something to build on moving forward.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.