Middlesbrough sack Aitor Karanka as Premier League relegation battle intensifies

Sacked | Karanka
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James Benge30 March 2017

Middlesbrough have sacked head coach Aitor Karanka as they battle to avoid relegation from the Premier League.

Boro have slipped into the relegation zone after struggling to find the net in 2017 – no Premier League side has scored fewer than their 19 goals in 27 games, a tally five lower than Sunderland.

Assistant Steve Agnew is set to take charge for the visit of Manchester United on Sunday, after which Boro have two weeks before a visit to fellow strugglers Swansea.

Karanka said: “I'd like to thank Middlesbrough for a wonderful opportunity and the players, staff and all the people at the club who I have worked with. I'd also like to thank the fans for their support.

“This club will always hold a special place for me and I wish everyone connected with Middlesbrough Football Club the very best for the future.”

The news of Karanka’s departure will be keenly noted in south London. Crystal Palace sit just three points clear of Boro in 17th position in a relegation battle that sees the team from 12th to 19th separated by just nine points.

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