Manager Gareth Southgate has admitted his frustration at the inconsistency of his Middlesbrough side following the 1-1 draw at Tottenham. Boro looked hugely impressive in the 2-2 draw with Manchester United but only six days later, Southgate's men turned in a shocking first-half performance at White Hart Lane, and although there was a considerable improvement in the second period, the manager was less than happy.

"The first half performance as a team was unacceptable but we were much better in the second half.

"Maybe we thought the season was over but it's not. Things are changing at this club. We're taking steps forward," Southgate told BBC Tees.

Relegation-threatened Bolton are next up for Boro and Southgate is demanding his troops match the Trotters' desire to win.

"We've got to finish strongly. We've still got the opportunity to go up the table and we want to be doing that."

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