Middlesbrough's recent run of form has seen them enter the play-off positions.

Tony Pulis has got Boro firing at a key time in the season after taking over from Garry Monk when he was sacked in December. They were inconsistent at first, but they are now unbeaten in five games with four of those being wins and Adama Traore has been key to that run.

All of Traore's goals and three of his five assists have come during Pulis' tenure, so he is clearly bringing the best out of him.

His dribbling ability is vital in destabilising defences and creating chances; he used to struggle with his decision-making, but this season he has taken a step forward in this regard.

Shotton plays just behind him as the right-back, so he has to maintain the balance between covering for him and providing width if he cuts inside, but he clearly has no qualms with that based on his interview.

As quoted by the Northern Echo, Shotton had this to say:

“It seems the easiest job in the world having him in front of me, but actually it can be the hardest because I have to make sure he’s back with the team tactically.”

“When you’re on the manager’s side, the manager gets after him. On the far side it’s me trying to pull him back. He’s a sensation, give him the ball and I know he will get us 50 yards up the pitch and make a chance."

“It’s coming with age. A lot of people forget he’s only 22, because of how he’s built and how he is and how mature he looks."

The Verdict

Shotton appears to be enjoying playing behind Traore due to the sheer ability and potential he has.

Having such a good partnership between the full-back and the winger is key because of how closely they work with each other.

That willingness to cover Traore if he loses the ball upfield ensures the defensive shape of the team isn't compromised which limits the opposition's ability to exploit these openings.