STEVE Agnew has given his first press conference since taking over from Aitor Karanka at Middlesbrough.
Middlesbrough's interim manager Steve Agnew shakes hands with a member of the media. Picture: North News
On the decision
“It was a surprise. I have to be honest, it was a really difficult day yesterday, a really emotional day. But today the players have trained well and we look forward to the weekend.
“Aitor, the work he’s put into the football club, has been incredible. I’ve been with him for two and a half years and have enjoyed his work, but also his company. He’s a really genuine guy. In the end, football is about results. We all know that, but I would never have a bad word to say about Aitor and what he’s done.
On reports of a rift
“Not at all. The players always train well. They’re probably the best group of players I’ve worked with in terms of their attitude and application to all they do."
On his instructions from the chairman Steve Gibson
“Very brief. Just enjoy it, get on with it and that’s what I’ve done. I’ve not had a long conversation with the chairman. I’ve known Steve a long time and we have a good relationship.
“All I want to do is prepare the team for Sunday. I know it’s an obvious answer but that’s as much as is on my mind at this moment in time."
On the comparison with the Leicester situation
“I’m very confident in what I’ve done. I’ve been in football for a long time now and am confident in terms of my abilities as a coach. Craig (Shakespeare) has done a fantastic job. He’s a great guy, if I can do what he has done we will all be pleased."
On Joe Jordan's appointment as assistant
“Joe is a great football, guy. I’ve known him a long time and have done courses with him. He’s worked at the highest level for a long time and I’ve kept in touch with him. He’s somebody I trust and he will have a big impact with the players. He lives in Bristol. When I made the phone call, he was in the car and was here six hours later. That tells you all you need to know.
“The players train really well every day. It’s obvious to everybody that we need to score a goal and win a game. Everybody has different ideas in football. I see myself as being a creative coach. I know I’m capable of drip-feeding ideas into the group that will pay dividends.
On the supporters
“The supporters this season have been first class. The supporters at the Riverside have been rocking. To create a hard work and enjoyable atmosphere breeds success."
On Manchester United
“It will be a tough tough game, but one we’re all looking forward to. They’ve got a top coach, top players and are very well organised. They’ve played a lot of games recently, but they’re going well in the league and the cup competitions. We have had a free week, so that has to be a benefit for us. If we can use that, then great."
On the future
“I think I’ve served my time. It’s something I’ve always wanted to do. I have had opportunities in the past but never felt they were quite right. To be given an opportunity is everything you need, but then you have to grasp it.
“I think the head coach title has come in now because the management job is so difficult. People can take a lot of weight off your shoulders - coaching is something I enjoy.
“It’s a massive opportunity, and one I’m really really looking forward to."
On the players
“The players understand where we are and what we need to do to get out of the situation we’re in. We’ve played some really good football and played well against a lot of the top teams.
"They’re more than capable, and like any team off the back of a promotion, they’re a real tight-knit group and there’s togetherness.
“I have a clear view of exactly what’s needed. That’s what I aim to deliver."
Boro team news
“Gestede is close and Bernardo trained this morning. This weekend, George Friend, Calum Chambers and Dani Ayala will probably miss the game."
On keeping Boro up
“It would be the biggest single achievement of my life. I do believe we will stay in the PL. I think I’m capable of delivering it, the players are capable of delivering it, and I know we have the support of everyone else in and around the club."
On that Charlton game
“All I want to do is look forward. I know it’s a stock answer but that’s how I think. The most important thing on my mind is the group of players tomorrow morning and preparing for the game."
On Stewart Downing
“Stewart is a Middlesbrough boy and loves the club. He’s born and bred in Middlesbrough and it’s his town club. He’s a very talented footballer and someone I’ve known a long time. I know how he works and he’s a big part of the rest of the season."
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