Keeper Randolph’s having a bawl at Boro

BORO keeper Darren Randolph is shouting the odds – and the message is loud and clear to Dael Fry.

Randolph made important saves for Tony Pulis’s side in the win over QPR, as Boro claimed their first home league victory of 2019.

And local-boy Fry is in no doubt that Republic of Ireland international Randolph can have a major say in whether the Teessiders clinch promotion.

The England Under- 21 defender (right) said: “Darren is always talking to me, always shouting, and that from a keeper is really good. You can switch off, so when you hear your name, it’s nice because it’s a reminder.

“You can hear him all the time on the pitch but, off it, he is helping, too. The saves he has made have been terrific. I can’t remember how many times I’ve turned round, and thought it was flying into the top corner, and he has got there. He’s a great keeper and one of the best we’ve had.

“The points he has saved us, and could save us, will be crucial. If Darren keeps performing the way he is, he’ll be vital to the promotion push.

“It gives the team a boost when he makes saves. Darren has been unbelievable.’’

Randolph saved from m Eberechi Eze soon after fter Boro took a second-minute lead through Jonny Howson, and denied substitute Nahki Wells in the closing stages with a superb one-handed stop.

Ashley Fletcher had doubled Boro’s advantage in the 32ndminute and, like Howson, profited from an astute assist by on-loan Everton midfielder Mo Besic.

QPR’s former Boro boss Steve McClaren said ex-Chelsea star John Obi Mikel – signed on a free last month – “could make the difference’’ for the Riverside outfit this term. And Fry feels the midfield combination of Besic and Mikel gives Boro a sound platform. He added: “I was behind Mo’s pass for the first goal and it was unbelievable for him to see that. That’s why he has come from the Premier League – he showed his spark and quality.

“H “He’s a top player and it’s go going to be good for him a alongside John. Mo has t the attacking side and J John is like a sweeper. It w was probably Mo’s best di display this season.’’ Ra Rangers, who host highflying Leeds tomorrow, hope playmaker Luke Freeman can return from a hip problem.

McClaren said: “We’re hoping Luke will be available. We missed his creativity.”

MIDDLESBROUGH: QPR: