Middlesbrough’s relegation back to the second tier has hit supporters hard, but there’s hope on the Riverside paddocks that a swift return back to the Premier League could be on the cards.

Whoever takes the reigns from Steve Agnew has a job on their hands at this level and you only have to look to Aston Villa to see how tough it can be to automatically return to the big-time.

But there’s one player in particular in this Boro squad that we think should be returning to the Premier League before the season gets underway, and that’s winger Adama Traore.

The former Barcelona man looked one of the brightest sparks in the Boro side during long spells this season and despite not always moving the ball as he should have done, he’s shown enough to suggest he’s good enough to continue at the top level.

He caused Manchester City some real difficulty during the 2-2 draw at the Riverside a couple of months ago and it was clear to see he was a step above some of the other players, currently residing in the North East.

Again, sometimes it’s clear that he doesn’t make the right decisions but he’s a man who’s confident running with the ball and an individual that could continue to have an impact in the top flight.

There’s bound to be a team in the Premier League that are looking for a quality winger who can add width and pace to their ranks over the summer, and Traore would very much hit the bill.

Boro fans - Worried about a potential Traore departure this summer? Leave your thoughts down below!