Middlesbrough FC

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• Manager:Tony Mowbray

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Gibson praises patient fans

15 Feb 2010 - 15:33:57

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Middlesbrough chairman Steve Gibson has heaped praise on the club's fans for showing great patience following their relegation from the Premier League.

The Riverside Stadium's followers have endured a stagnating three years and after the decision to replace Gareth Southgate with Gordon Strachan was made, instant results weren't evident.

However, now former Celtic boss Strachan has stamped his mark on the club, Gibson believes they are turning the corner.

Speaking to the club's official website, he said: "The fans have been tremendously patient.

"It hasn't been the best 12 months or even three years for this football club but there has been no mass hysteria.

"They understand it has been a difficult time for the club.

"Early results under Gordon weren't evidence of the steps forward we were taking behind the scenes.

"He has upped the tempo in training. Some players showed some reluctance to that or perhaps couldn't handle it.

"But we are bringing a real team and work ethic back into the club and a real camaraderie too. That's what Gordon Strachan is working so hard on."