Middlesbrough are preparing themselves for a summer rebuild after being pipped to a play-off place on the final day of the Championship season by Derby County.

Tony Pulis' side had been competing around the play-off zone for much of the season, but it was ultimately their disappointing goalscoring record that prevented them from greater success.

Boro's failure to reach the top six has led to growing speculation regarding Pulis' future and it is now reported that he will be sacked by the end of the week, according to Gazette Live.

His side's defensive-minded approach this season has led to disillusionment among Boro fans, with many feeling that the club needs a to take a different direction in order to lay stronger foundations for the future.

It is now emerging that the Boro hierarchy are seriously considering coaches in the Eredivisie to succeed Pulis, according to sports presenter Steve Crossman.

Crossman also claims the Boro board are chasing such an appointment in order to regain fans' backing following an underwhelming season at the Riverside Stadium this campaign.

The Verdict

Middlesbrough fans should feel hugely encouraged by this update.

It shows that it is not just the fans who have become tired of Pulis' unappealing playing style, and a crowd-friendly playing style is now definitely needed in the north-east.

If Middlesbrough are indeed considering this mould of manager, then they should waste no time in dismissing Pulis as they have clearly already established that he will not be part of the club's future.