Thoughts on Boro's defeat at Old Trafford.

A resilient looking Middlesbrough showed flashes of their former selves with a more assured performance ending in defeat at Old Trafford. Whilst Manchester United dominated for much of the game Middlesbrough had their moments, particularly when Tuncay headed just wide in the 61st minute of play. However Berbatov's close range effort a few minutes later sealed all thre points for United.

The result marked the continuation of a run without a win for Boro which has now been extended to eight games. Goalkeeper Ross Turnbull again put in an assured performance, with perhaps one or two more goals from United being possible if not for some excellent stops. Whilst the overall performance was a lot more encouraging than those of late, it is still worrying to note that Boro were unable to score once again, even while this was away at Old Trafford. It is worrying to note that we are still having trouble getting goals after investing into our forward lineup.

With January transfers looming Southgate has now publicly stated that he will not be willing to sell off-form Stewart Downing in the transfer window. It has not been a fantastic seasons for Downing but he has looked bright for England earlier this year, and could still be important to the Boro this season. Tottenham who are most heavily linked with the England International but the fans at least seem slightly undecided at the prospect of buying him whilst his form has dropped. Gary O'Neil has also been linked with a move back to Portsmouth following the exit of Diarra, and Mido has been linked with a move to Wigan to link up with Zaki. It does seem likely someone will go and it would seem as if Boro were going to buy they will have to sell beforehand.