This article is part of Football League World's 'The Verdict' series, which provides personal opinions from the FLW writers regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more...

Middlesbrough's disappointing start to the season continues after their latest 1-1 draw against Preston North End, a result that leaves Jonathan Woodgate's side down in 19th place in the Championship, just five points above the drop zone.

This early season form has prompted Woodgate to look to strengthen his squad with Bristol Rovers striker Jonson Clarke-Harris a target, according to the Bristol Post.

So would Clarke-Harris be a good addition at the Riverside?

We discuss........

Chris Thorpe

"Clarke-Harris is unlikely to command a substantial transfer fee, meaning that he could be easier to snare away than perhaps other more established targets that Woodgate may have in mind."

"The striker has performed well at League One level but now the time has come for him to make a return to the Championship once more."

"Clarke-Harris not only offers you pace in behind the defence, but also good strength at holding the ball up, due to his height."

"He would provide Jonathan Woodgate with a great option to go either alongside or in place of Assombalonga, particularly with both he and Rudy Gestede struggling for consistency so far this term."

Ned Holmes

“This looks like it could be a really good bit of business for Boro and provide them with the attacking firepower they need.

“The North East club looked like they needed to add goals over the summer and failed to really do that

“Clarke-Harris has picked up where he left off last season and has been prolific again for Bristol Rovers in the 2019/20 campaign.

“The striker has eight goals in 12 appearances so far and could be the boost Boro need to help them climb up the Championship table.”

Jacob Potter

"He would be a risk, that might not be worth taking if I’m being brutally honest.

"I’m not doubting for one second that Jonson Clarke-Harris is a striker in an excellent run of form, but I’m not convinced he’s the man to steer Middlesbrough clear of their relegation fears.

"Britt Assombalonga needs a striker that has scored 10+ goals each season at this level to be pushing him for his starting spot in the team, and I don’t think Clarke-Harris would be the ideal player to do so.

"He’s already scored seven league goals this season, but with the predicament that Woodgate’s side are currently in, they shouldn’t be taking a punt on a player that hasn't been prolific enough in his last spell in the Championship.

"Clarke-Harris netted just nine goals in 50 appearances for Rotherham in the Championship earlier in his career, which isn't the best of records.

"There are better options out there."

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