Hayden Hackney situation and a first glimpse at the new Castore kit

The latest Middlesbrough FC talking points by Bonkers For Boro

After the fanfare of Rob Edwards’ arrival, this week about knuckling down on the training ground.

Edwards has made it very clear that he’ll demand that his players put in some proper graft on the pitch, with the instruction being that regardless of whether they make a mistake and lose the ball, players must win it back “double-quick”.

Sharing some clips on social media, the former Luton boss was delighted with how his players took on their new responsibilities, with Neto Borges among those saying that the players can handle it.

Hayden Hackney uncertainty

One player who isn’t back in training yet is Mr Middlesbrough, Hayden Hackney.

The midfielder has been away with England under-21s’ Euros-winning side and as a result, he’s rightly been given an extra couple of weeks to rest before returning to training.

That hasn’t stopped the speculation beginning over what the future holds for him this summer.

Reports emerged in The Sun suggesting that Crystal Palace are plotting a £27m double deal for Hackney and Rav van den Berg.

Meanwhile EFL Analysis are claiming that Hackney is set to change agents - the clearest indication yet that the 23-year-old is looking to earn a move.

There’s a feeling of inevitability that the midfielder will move on this summer, but how much is he worth?

My video verdict on the brewing transfer saga can be found HERE.

Cast-y-ore eyes on Boro’s new kit

In another exciting moment in the build-up to the new season, Middlesbrough revealed their new home kit for the 2025/26 campaign.

Designed by our new manufacturers Castore, the shirt is red with a white band and a pattern based on the gates of Ayresome Park.

The reception from fans has been pretty good, even if the shirt will cost £60 for adults and £48 for children.

With the away kit and a potential third kit still to come, there’s plenty to keep fans going before the big kick-off in August.

This week’s Bonkers For Boro highlights

Transfer silly season is in full flow, but so far, there’s been nothing in the way of new players joining the club.

That said, Middlesbrough have their fingers in plenty of pies and so I have evaluated the best of the links (not the clickbait nonsense) and given my verdict on how likely they are to come off.

You can see that video HERE.

In a clip from my feature-length interview with Dimi Konstantopoulos, the Greek goalkeeper told the story of Aitor Karanka’s reign and revealed what REALLY happened when the Spaniard went AWOL against Charlton.

You can see the exclusive interview clip HERE.

Dimi also spoke in detail about life in the Premier League with Middlesbrough and didn’t hold back when discussing some of his teammates - most notably Victor Valdes who, he says, left a lot to be desired.

You can hear what Dimi had to say HERE.

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Phil Spencer, Bonkers For Boro