Middlesbrough boss is gunning for Aston Villa
Middlesbrough boss Gareth Southgate has demanded his players lift themselves from the pain of their latest agonising defeat if they are to avoid the ultimate hurt of relegation.
Monday's 3-1 loss at Newcastle has left Southgate and Boro dangerously close to demotion to the Coca-Cola Championship with just two matches remaining to save their Barclays Premier League lives.
With the club three points from safety and with a far inferior goal difference, it appears certain Boro will have to win both games, at home to Aston Villa on Saturday and at West Ham on the final day.
It was a feat previously achieved in the final two matches of last season, ending their campaign with an 8-1 demolition of Manchester City.
What Southgate would give for a portion of those goals to help beat Villa and the Hammers as his side have mustered just 26 all season.
Instead, Southgate must try and rally his troops again as they lick their wounds from the loss to the Magpies.
"The Newcastle game was tough and it has taken a lot out of the players," Southgate said.
