So what’s the objective now then, Steve?

Jan 24 2010 by Neil Farrington, Sunday Sun

YOU couldn’t tell on the telly the other night, but you’d understand it if Gareth Southgate’s nose was out of joint.

And, though he had no cause to mention it while analysing the Carling Cup semi-final between Aston Villa and Blackburn, I reckon he’ll be itching to ask a couple of questions . . .

First off, does Steve Gibson still reckon Middlesbrough will get promoted?

After all, it was the prospect of Boro not being promoted that got Southgate the sack three months ago.

Who says? Boro chairman Gibson said. Barely a month ago.

He revealed that, in the wake of relegation last May, he told Southgate and his coaching staff: “We have been declining consistently for three years, but I believe there is enough talent around this table to get us up at the first chance.

“It has to be made clear that if there is any time in the coming season where I don’t think those objectives will be fulfilled, I will change it . . .

“I want to be absolutely honest with you.”

Big on honesty, is Gibson. Genuinely. It’s a large part of what kept Boro fighting above their weight in the Premier League for so long; with successive managers supported in building for the long term.

Look at Southgate, who was cut more slack last summer at the very time most chairmen would have kicked the trapdoor from beneath his feet.

Look at Bryan Robson, whose managerial career perhaps suffered for Gibson’s loyalty during the dismal latter days of his reign. Killed with kindness, so to speak.

Look at Steve McClaren, in whom Gibson kept faith when plenty of others – after just four games of the future England manager’s maiden season on Teesside – had written him off.

But the theme here is honesty . . . and the league table doesn’t lie.

And so, to the other question. One which Southgate won’t be alone in asking. Just how much loyalty – or rope – does Gibson give Gordon Strachan?

When Southgate was sacked, Boro lay fourth in the Championship, with 22 points after 13 games.