‘Great’ Middlesbrough youngster who has impressed Rob Edwards could play key part this season 

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Amidst a challenging pre-season for Middlesbrough, new boss Rob Edwards has identified a promising youngster who could be key to their upcoming campaign.

Middlesbrough’s preparations for the new season haven’t left fans with much faith lately. One ‘abysmal’ pre-season game has left fans worried for the upcoming season. 

One of Boro’s top players, Hayden Hackney, has been attracting Premier League interest, but as far as Edwards is concerned, he’s ‘committed’ to Boro. 

Despite all the stresses of pre-season, Edwards has shared a glimmer of hope about one particular Boro youngster who could help drive their Premier League hopes. 

Rob Edwards praises Middlesbrough youngster Sammy Silvera

The Aussie forward has struggled at Boro since his transfer two years ago, with limited game time and unsuccessful loan spells. His future at the club seemed uncertain.

However, with Edwards’ arrival, Silvera has seized new opportunities, impressing at Rockliffe. He particularly shone during Saturday’s friendly against Mansfield.

Given attacking freedom, Silvera’s skill and pace caused significant problems for the Stags’ defence, leading to dangerous crosses and a penalty for Boro.

Post-match, Edwards told Teesside Live: “Sammy has really impressed since returning. He’s always got a smile on his face and has a real energy. 

“He wants to press, he wants to sprint back, and he’s got some real qualities on the ball. He has impressed me. That’s what I want from everyone.

“He’s a great kid. He came to see me. I won’t tell you the whole conversation, but he’s just dead keen to be here.

“He took some responsibility himself, and he’s just shown a great attitude over the three weeks so far. I want to see that, and I’m sure the supporters do too.

“We all want to see players who want to play for them and the shirt. Sammy is really showing that at the moment.

“Whether he starts, whether he doesn’t, he wants to be here, and he’s showing that in his attitude. If everyone can show the same desire, we’ll be alright.”

Sammy Silvera’s role in Middlesbrough’s top six ambitions

Rob Edwards arrived at Middlesbrough with numerous issues to sort, mainly bringing in fresh talent to help build on last season’s 10th place finish. 

Given his recent comments, it’s clear Sammy Silvera is one player he’ll be looking to maximise, who has shown incredible promise in pre-season.

Silvera, who initially struggled for regular game time, has impressed Rob Edwards with his renewed commitment and dynamic play.

His performance against Mansfield will have highlighted to Edwards his pace and ability to deliver dangerous crosses, attributes which Boro need to unlock Championship defences. 

Looking at Edwards’ previous coaching style, his need for high-intensity play and tactical flexibility seems perfectly suited to bring out the best in Silvera.

If Silvera can consistently translate his pre-season form into the Championship, his contribution will be vital in helping Middlesbrough push for a coveted top-six finish and ultimately, a genuine promotion challenge this season.