Monk has no room for rebels

GARRY MONK has promised to root out any dressing-room unrest at Middlesbrough.

Winger Stewart Downing and defenders Ben Gibson and George Friend have all hinted at trouble behind the scenes on Teesside.

Aitor Karanka agreed to go as head coach in March as Boro slumped – but caretaker boss Steve Agnew failed to save them from relegation.

Now Monk, who has taken charge on a three-year contract after quitting Leeds, will insist on unity as he chases immediate promotion.

He said: “The players aren’t back yet but all of those situations that are linked with the first team are for me to assess and make the sure the environment is right for every player to work in.

“There are a lot more facets to the process than just that but main one for me is the environment the players work in has to be the best possible.

“That’s something I’m very big on and something I’ve always done in the past.

“I will be identifying anything that can help that environment to grow and making sure it’s the right culture.

“It’s very early days, we’re going through a process right now of being around and getting a feel for the club.

“Then we’ll be with the players and understanding the players, speaking to them and making sure things grow from there.’’