BORO FACTBOXStar Man: Stewart Downing
Outstanding campaign last time around and the Teessider will be crucial to any success for Boro this season.

One to Watch: Afonso Alves
Club record signing who shone at the end of last season and he could set the league alight with his clinical finishing.

Manager: Gareth Southgate
Coming to terms with management and big things are now expected of the Boro boss.

INS: Marvin Emnes (Sparta Rotterdam), Didier Digard (PSG)

OUTS: Lee Cattermole (Wigan), George Boateng (Hull City), Lee Dong-Gook (Released), Mark Schwarzer (Fulham), Steve Thompson (Port Vale), Fabio Rochemback (Sporting), Gaizka Mendieta (Released)

Best signing: Didier Digard

Sky Bet Odds: 1,500-1

Likely top scorer: Afonso Alves

Possible best XI (Turnbull; McMahon, Wheater, Huth, Pogatetz; O'Neil, Digard, Arca, Downing, Alves, Mido)

Predicted finish: 12th