Fabbrini’s making his mark with Boro fans
AS an Italy international – with talent most could only dream of – Diego Fabbrini was expected to be an integral part of the Watford side which charged towards the Premier League.
But, two frustrating years later, the enigmatic forward is finally having his chance to shine in a promotion-chasing team after joining Aitor Karanka’s Middlesbrough.
Fabbrini’s skills have never been in doubt, but the 25-year-old struggled to make an impact in England and was sent back to Italy in his first season with the Hornets.
A second chance arrived in the summer of 2014, but an influx of signings again saw the former Empoli star loaned out to Millwall and then Birmingham.
He quickly became a fans’ favourite at both clubs and the same has happened again after three goals in 11 outings since joining Boro on a temporary deal.
Karanka’s entertainers will be looking to make it seven wins on the bounce in all competitions when they face Leeds United at the Riverside today.
“We are an exciting team with a lot of attacking players and, for that reason, I think we can do very well this season,” said Fabbrini.
“If we want to go up to the Premier League, then we will have to win a lot of matches and Leeds is the kind of game, at home, that we need to be doing well in.”
Boro are likely to be without Daniel Ayala and Christian Stuani, but Leeds manager Uwe Rosler still acknowledged their class this week.
However the former Brentford and Wigan boss – who has no fresh injury concerns – is confident United can cause an upset.
Rosler said:“They are favourites, not only for this game but for the league and I’m not just saying that just before we play them.
“We have nothing to lose and I always feel my players like to prove people wrong, to go out and play with no fear.”