Kyle Joseph is working to overcome a delayed start to his Middlesbrough career after arriving while still recovering from a significant ankle injury. The 24-year-old forward sustained the problem during Hull City's Championship play-off semi-final victory over Millwall last season, which complicated his summer switch to the Riverside.
His move was finalised amid uncertainty over his fitness, preventing him from taking part in any pre-season friendlies or initial training sessions with his new teammates. Joseph admitted it was a difficult period, feeling behind the rest of the squad and unable to make an immediate impact. He thanked the medical staff at both Middlesbrough and his former club Hull for helping him return to action as quickly as possible.
Contribution to promotion campaign
Despite the setback, Joseph has now featured in every league game for Boro this season, missing only the Carabao Cup defeat at Crystal Palace. He made his debut as a substitute in the cup opener against Wrexham and scored in the subsequent win at Doncaster. His influence was clear in the recent 2-2 draw at Birmingham, where his pressing forced an error from goalkeeper James Beadle, leading to Adilson Malanda's late equaliser. That result helped maintain Middlesbrough's strong early position, with the team currently third in the Championship on 15 points from eight games.
Joseph, who played 44 league games for Hull last term, knows he must continue to impress to secure a regular starting spot. He stated he needs to keep putting the manager's ideas into practice on the pitch. With the team two points off the top and showing form of two wins, two draws and one loss from their last five, his added sharpness could be vital. Supporters can track the team's progress and upcoming schedule on our fixtures and standings pages.
The immediate focus is a key home match against fourth-placed Wolverhampton Wanderers on 10 October. Joseph is expected to be involved as he continues his journey from rehabilitation to becoming a key figure in Middlesbrough's promotion campaign.
More detail at Teesside Live
