Ian Holloway has predicted that Middlesbrough will only get better as the season progresses.
Aitor Karanka's side have moved up to second in the Championship table, three points behind leaders Brighton & Hove Albion, after winning their last four games on the bounce.
Former Crystal Palace and Blackpool boss Holloway has admitted that he has been impressed with the work that Karanka has done at the Riverside Stadium so far this term.
"Boro have a great manager in charge - and a really nice guy too. His coaching is well thought out, his signings have been incredible - David Nugent and Stewart Downing especially," he told Sky Sports News.
"They have made a statement by having their own strikers now, instead of borrowing Patrick Bamford. They are only going to get stronger.
"Well done to them all for getting over their playoff disappointment. I don't believe anyone will run away with it because the standard is that high, but Boro will be up there without a shadow of a doubt."
Middlesbrough host Leeds United on Sunday.
Steven Toplis
