The 2016/17 season in the Premier League was nothing short of disappointing for Middlesbrough.
Countless numbers of uninspiring performances left fans at the Riverside with a fear of relegation.
When that was indeed confirmed, attentions turned immediately to gearing up for a return to the top flight.
Most notably, the addition of Garry Monk appears to show that Boro are heading in the right direction.
Having achieved promotion to the Premier League as a player with Swansea City, Monk knows just what it takes to reach the top flight.
And, if promotion is to be achieved, they have a manager who boasts experience at the highest level, too.
With one of the biggest budgets in the league, Monk has been eager to use the available financial resources to the best of his ability.
Several signings look to be impressive for the Championship side, showing their ambition to return to the top flight.
Though only time will tell, Boro appear to be one of the favourites to win the league this season.
In what is known as one of the most challenging leagues in world football, Monk's side will have to be at their best each week if they want any chance of promotion.
Having said that, Boro appear to be in a better position than any of their competitors.
With a strong squad - full of quality - and an ambitious manager who is eager to work in the Premier League again, there is no doubting the strength of Boro this season....
Click here to see the 2 players that need to perform this season for Boro...
George Friend
After an injury-hit campaign last time out, Friend will be eager to hit the ground running this season.
Having been at the club since 2012, the 29-year-old has accumulated over 150 appearances.
If anyone knows what Premier League football means to the Boro fans, it is Friend.
A reliable player when fit and Monk should certainly look to the full-back for stability and attacking intent.
As a real leader, Friend will be one of the most important pieces of the Middlesbrough jigsaw this season.
If he can stay fit, Monk should be able to call upon Friend when character and determination are needed in such a long Championship season.
As a result, Friend should be expected to perform this season and help the club back to the Premier League.
Martin Braithwaite
As the club's third summer signing, Braithwaite will be desperate to impress not only the manager but the fans too.
With a reported fee of £9m, his services have not come cheap.
Thus, meaning that he could face some expectancy very early on in his time at Middlesbrough.
As a forward, the Denmark international may have to adapt his game to fit the demands of Monk's formation changes.
He may be expected to play in a front three or just behind the main striker.
That in mind, and considering his price tag, Braithwaite could be an important figure for Boro this season.
With 35 goals in 136 appearances at Toulouse, the forward will need to continue his knack of scoring goals in order to help Middlesborough to promotion this season.
Middlesbrough fans... how do you think Friend and Braithwaite will perform? Let us know in the comment section below!