On paper, Garry Monk's recruitment process on Teesside has been remarkable and definitely challenges Wolves in terms of much-needed quality over the course of the summer. 

The six first-team acquisitions before the season began is a compliment to the hard work the former Leeds United boss has done behind the scenes, and it would be a truly stunning turn out if Middlesbrough failed an instant return to the top-flight.

One of those work horses that 'Boro needed in midfield is 29 year-old Jonny Howson, who made the move from Norwich City of East Anglia to the Riverside Stadium to ensure the club challenge for those coveted top two spots in the table.

The Leeds youth academy graduate has racked just shy of 150 appearances in the Championship as well as a further 111 in the division below, so that vast knowledge of the English Football League may just be the key to success in the north-east.

Middlesbrough's frightening attack, on paper, is down to the service of the midfield and Howson is the box-to-box player in the middle who will both contribute to attack and defence, just as vital as each other.

With that said, every midfield needs an engine and Jonny Howson clearly provides that with his ability to connect one side of the pitch to the other in a matter of seconds.

A seriously astute signing.

Middlesbrough supporters, is Jonny Howson the key to your midfield? Can his experience be the difference between the play-offs and automatic promotion? Let us get your thoughts in the comment section below!