FLASH IT.. SMASH IT
Monk aim to answer Gibson call
Wolves v Middlesbrough kick-off 3pm GARRY MONK is forging ahead with Middlesbrough’s bid to “smash” the Championship – boosted by £40million of spending and a bold pledge from his boss.
The former Swansea and Leeds chief wants to win promotion at the first attempt, and finds his Boro side among the favourites in the Championship as they kick-off at another team of big spenders, Wolves.
Monk has revitalised the club and been handed firepower in the transfer market by Steve Gibson, who is determined to correct the mistakes of last season’s relegation.
Back in May the chairman vowed: “We will smash the league next year. We want to go back up as champions.”
And off the pitch he’s lived up to that billing with some big spending.
Gibson said: “Collectively, responsibility lies through me and right the way through the club. We failed and must correct our mistakes.” Monk said: “We want to try and win it with our quality, but we also realise how relentless it is. I look for dynamic, hungry players with a point to prove. “We had players like that here and we have recruited others. I am very happy with what we have done so far.” Britt Assombalonga (left) arrived early for £15m from Nottingham Forest where he scored 30 in 69 games, saying: “I’m here to score goals. “I have broken transfer records twice already, at Peterborough and Nottingham Forest, I’ve gone well past the stage of the pressure.” West Ham’s Ashley Fletcher cost £7m and will be a threat. Keeper Darren Randolph cost £5m, while Jonny Howson arrived from Norwich and knows the Championship as does ex-Derby star Cyrus Christie.