Zack Steffen set for nightmare as Middlesbrough manager plans for prolonged replacement

Manchester City’s Zack Steffen is set for nightmare as Middlesbrough manager Chris Wilder is ready to stick with back-up goalkeeper Liam Roberts.

Steffen was seen as the first choice coming in, with Roberts set to be his back-up. That was evident in the opening fixtures of the Championship season, as he started five games on the bounce as the Teessiders picked up three draws and suffered two defeats.

Roberts, meanwhile, featured in the EFL Cup defeat to Barnsley, as most second choice goalkeepers do.

Amid a tough start to the season, Steffen conceded nine goals in those five games. Since a 1-0 defeat to Reading FC on August 20th, Steffen hasn’t featured owing to a knee injury.

That’s offered Daniels the chance to step up onto the bench, with Roberts moving from second choice to Wilder’s go-to man between the posts.

Whether it’s by coincidence or not, Boro’s results have picked up in Roberts’ three Championship appearances. They’ve beaten Swansea City and Sunderland, keeping a clean sheet in the latter win.

According to the latest information provided by journalist Alan Nixon, Middlesbrough manager Chris Wilder is intent on sticking with Liam Roberts as his first-choice goalkeeper, even at the risk of displeasing Pep Guardiola’s side.

Manchester City wanted their on-loan shot-stopper to play week in, week out in the Championship, which could be a tall task for him at the minute.

The report was shared on Twitter by City Xtra and it attracted plenty of attention from the club’s supporters.

“This is actually sad 😭”
Credit: @aXtrips

“Ah feel for him, maybe should head back to MLS”
Credit: @ManCityKD

“U.S’ number one keeper not being able to start for Middlesbrough in the championship is hilarious”
Credit: @morresantos

“Not surprising”
Credit: @TheBrodie09

“Would be the same for any keeper in any league, your out injured, you get fit and fight for your place”
Credit: @ScottCu86

“Steffan has made a few errors leading to goals this season Roberts has come in and performed better can’t expect to drop him just cos steffan plays for city”
Credit: @kieranstead95