Many Championship fans would have seen Middlesbrough as one of the favourites for promotion to the Premier League this season, and they have certainly justified that. 

Boro are currently sat second in the table and have an impressive defensive record, with Tony Pulis' side conceding just eight goals this season in the Championship.

With the promotion hopefuls just two points behind league-leaders Norwich City heading into the international break, many Boro fans will feel that Pulis already has the squad to challenge for a return to the Premier League.

But, if they were to make one addition in particular in January then it could provide them with the extra firepower needed as they mount their promotion bid.

It's easy to forget that Kieran Dowell is still at Everton, with the youngster rarely featuring for the Toffees in recent seasons.

However, the creative midfielder has first-team experience in the Championship already with Nottingham Forest, where he certainly made a positive impression on the Forest supporters, particularly during the first-half of last season.

Dowell scored on nine occasions for the Reds last season in the league and he could be the attack-minded midfielder that Pulis' side have been missing this season.

Middlesbrough already have the likes of George Saville, Jonny Howson and Mo Besic in their squad, but none of the midfield trio offer what Dowell does going forward.

Therefore, Dowell could be the perfect player to step into their squad and provide some creativity for the likes of Jordan Hugill and Britt Assombalonga, who are yet to find their best form this season.

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