Jonathan Woodgate is right to drop Djed Spence if the full-back has let his standard's slip.
That's the view of Teesside Live writer Philip Tallentire who has been discussing the youngster's current omission from the first team bold.
The 19-year-old burst onto the scene back in December after being handed a surprise start in the Championship victory over Charlton Athletic at the Riverside Stadium.
His performance was nothing short of sensational and it appeared to establish his place as a first team regular under Woodgate.
However in recent weeks Spence has fallen out of favour with the Teessiders, and according to Tallentire, this is down to a drop in standards from the young defender.
Writing in a Q&A for Teesside Live, Tallentire said: "Regarding Djed Spence, Jonathan Woodgate was pretty clear on his reasons for leaving him out of the squad at Barnsley.
"After that game he said: 'Djed needs to do more.'
"Clearly, Spence’s standards have slipped since breaking into the team and that’s something Woodgate is not going to stand for.
"Managers have such problems from time to time and the vast majority take the same action - leave the individual out of the team.
"There’s no doubt he’s got ability and his introduction into the team for the home game against Charlton was a rare highlight in an otherwise troubling season for the club.
"Defensively he still has some improving to do but that will come in time. He’s only 19 and still learning his trade.
"Woodgate isn’t stupid, he won’t be leaving Spence out of his team simply to spite the player or the fans.
"He’s doing it because all players need to accept a certain level of standards on and off the field.
"To let a player get away with indiscipline can fatally weaken a dressing room and lose the manager credibility with other members of the squad.
"Londoner Spence is a young man living a long way from his home town so needs to be handled sensitively.
"Also, from a purely footballing perspective, his form since the impressive run of game in December has been inconsistent. It’s not the case that’s he’s been undroppable because of his form.
"Frankly, there are few first team players at the moment who are guaranteed a start based on current performances."
Can you identify these Middlesbrough players based on their date of birth and birthplace? Have a go!
The verdict
This is a particularly frustrating situation for Jonathan Woodgate.
Djed Spence was a real asset when in the first team previously as he perfectly suited the role of right wing-back due to his defensive ability and attacking instincts.
However if his attitude has suffered it's hard to criticise the Boro boss for making such a big call.
The hope will surely be that the defender can get his head down as there's no doubt that he'd be a big plus for the Teessiders as they enter a big few weeks.