Whilst Leeds United have been the team in the spotlight this season, the start that Middlesbrough have made to the season has more than matched the Whites.

After nine league games, Tony Pulis' side sit joint top of the league alongside Leeds, after five wins, three draws and just one defeat - a phenomenal start to proceedings to say the least.

The North East club have looked mightily impressive this season, and currently look a good bet for promotion having lost just the once thus far, and they will be looking to extend their unbeaten run at the weekend.

Boro travel to two relegation candidates in a week, first they prepare to travel to Hull on Saturday, then face a trip to Ipswich on Tuesday night, and the Riverside faithful will be very hopeful of two wins.

Here, we take a look at three reasons why Pulis will deliver promotion to Middlesbrough this season...

If a team has a good home record, then they won't go far wrong, and this is evident for Boro who are yet to lose at home in all competitions this season.

If they can win their home games and pick up points on the road, then they may have one foot in the Premier League come the end of the season.

After conceding two goals on opening day, Boro have conceded just one goal in their previous eight league games - quite simply a phenomenal stat.

They boast the best defensive record in the division by three goals, and simply do not look like conceding in any way at the moment.

Boro have a fantastic attacking line, the likes of Britt Assombalonga and Jordan Hugill are both proven goalscorers at this level, and Martin Braithwaite has also scored a few this term as well.

If Pulis' men can provide these clinical finishers with the service they require, then their goals could spearhead Boro up the Championship table and into the top flight.