Kim Hellberg breaks down Middlesbrough’s winning formula after dramatic Stoke City victory

Kim Hellberg’s tactical gamble delivers as Middlesbrough snatch dramatic Stoke City victory

Kim Hellberg’s decision to change Middlesbrough’s formation proved decisive as Boro continued their impressive run with a thrilling victory away to Stoke City on Tuesday night.

Fresh from Saturday’s hard-fought 1-0 triumph over rivals Wolves, Hellberg could have kept faith with the same starting lineup for the trip to the bet365 Stadium. However, with Tommy Conway and Riley McGree still needing careful management following their summer injuries, the Middlesbrough boss decided to make changes.

Luke Ayling was brought into the starting XI as Hellberg switched to a back-three system, a tactical adjustment that helped his side secure another important result despite conceding twice.

Although Boro gave away two goals that could have been avoided, their overall defensive display was encouraging. Stoke’s first equaliser came through an own goal, while the hosts managed just one shot on target throughout the contest.

Hellberg was pleased with how his players adapted to the new system, particularly their ability to exploit the spaces available against Stoke’s setup.

The Middlesbrough boss also praised the flexibility of Neto Borges and Callum Brittain, explaining how their different qualities allowed the team to create problems for the opposition.

Brittain enjoyed an outstanding evening, opening the scoring with his first goal for the club. Lankshear then registered his tenth goal of the season before Borges delivered the decisive blow with a stoppage-time winner.

Hellberg was full of praise for his wing-backs, believing their contributions were thoroughly deserved after their consistent efforts for the team.

The Boro manager also highlighted the physical and mental demands of Saturday’s victory over Wolves, making Tuesday’s performance even more impressive.

Having produced such a strong display only three days after that demanding encounter, Middlesbrough demonstrated their quality, resilience and growing confidence under Hellberg.

For the head coach, the victory was a testament not only to the individual performances of his players but also to the collective spirit and tactical flexibility developing within the squad.