Steve Gibson has talked the talk...

Steve Gibson has talked the talk, now he needs to walk the walk

Since we were relegated Steve Gibson has been telling us all that promotion is his aim, and that we must not fail in achieving this. First it was by automatic promotion, then as our form dived the talk from the club has switched to the playoffs, but with the end of the transfer window closing in on us fast is Middlesbrough Football Club’s aim just consolidation this season?

I am disappointed, and somewhat concerned with the lack of players coming in to improve the team, and bolster squad numbers. Currently we have let Mohammed Shawky, Didier Digard and Mark Yeates leave, with Marcus Bent also leaving having finished his loan spell – and the additions are Chris Killen, Willo Flood and Barry Robson. Four players out, three in, with a net loss of a midfield player - and now there is talk of Gary O’Neil leaving.

We still are dreadfully short up front, and we need to replace Yeates as soon as possible. We still lack creativity in midfield and any sort of goal threat from our strikers. I personally wouldn’t like to rely on Lita, Aliadiere and Killen for the rest of the season.

What I would like to see is Steve Gibson getting serious about signing some strikers with proven records. Jermaine Beckford, David Healy and Kris Boyd are all names that have been doing the rounds, but its money that seems to be the problem. So, come on Steve, show us you mean business and get your hand in your pocket.

I think the consequences of staying in the Championship are horrific for a club like Middlesbrough. If the Manchester City game was anything to go by we could be looking at 10,000 home fans being the average next season, and overall support for the manager, chairman and team being at an all time low. Something needs to be done, and it needs to be done before the 31st January 2010.