Another Twist...

So here we are. How foolish was I to think that there wouldn't be another twist in the strange tale that this season has been for Middlesbrough.

Even though it has been long proclaimed in the press as almost certain, it feels strange. It's like losing someone close to you in a strange way. No one can argue with his track record despite the lack of top European experience, he has taken Middlesbrough from relegation strugglers to Carling Cup Winners to UEFA Cup finalists. Not bad for five years really.

Another thing that's so strange is that he's never been anyones first choice. Always seen as the safety net, the press wanted O'Neill while the FA wanted Scolari. He must feel very strange to be in the position he is in.

You can guarantee though, despite his minor affair with a secretary last year, very few tabloid stories will emerge of McClaren banging birds over the FA's finest furniture. He'll be focused on England solely. If that turns out to be the case, I'll struggle to see why he should continue.

He is young and inexperienced but you never know. Remember Keegan? Hoddle? Bad choices who never really got to grips with the team in my opinion. McClaren has to prove himself and let's hope the papers don't judge him before he actually beings managing them.

My only problem is that the media may lynch him for picking Boro players in his squad. I know it sounds funny but it's true. That could be an issue with the talent coming through at the Boro, Downing, Morrison and of course Super Lee.

For now though, I support him and thank him for his time at Boro. Never loved by all for his occasionally defensive tactics, his achievements have been excellent and I thank him for giving so many youngsters a chance. Hopefully his successor will have the same enthusiasm for that.

Also, lets be fair England fans, if we're two down at half-time in Euro 2008, I know who I'd most like to have as manager.