DAEL FRY is relishing the ball-playing responsibilities that have been placed on his shoulders by new Middlesbrough manager Chris Wilder.

Fry made his first start since returning from injury as Boro drew 0-0 at Stoke at the weekend, forming part of a back three alongside Anfernee Dijksteel and Paddy McNair.

Whereas Neil Warnock wanted his backline to primarily focus on their defensive responsibilities, Wilder sees his centre-halves as key figures in sparking attacks, a switch in emphasis that Fry feels plays to his footballing strengths.

“I was a bit gutted when Warnock went because I learned a lot from him, especially defensively,” said the Teessider.

“But since the new manager has come in, he’s been fantastic with us as well. It’s a different way of playing football, and for me personally, I think it’s a lot better than the previous way of playing.

“I think with the back three now, we build up the play. We’ve got to be good on the ball, and sometimes we’ve got to take risks to reset up the attacks.”

Fry was nursing an injury when Wilder was appointed, but the new Boro boss clearly regards the 24-year-old as a key defensive asset.

He was restored to the starting line-up at the earliest opportunity at the weekend, and came through the game at the Bet 365 Stadium without any problems. As a result, he should remain in the starting side when Bournemouth visit the Riverside on Saturday lunchtime.

“To be honest, when you play in the middle of a three, you don’t really do too much running,” said Fry, in an interview with BBC Tees Sport.

“My groins were a little bit sore from passing it left and right because we have to move it quick, to move the opposition about, but it felt really good.

“It was the first 90 minutes for about nine weeks, and it’s always tough when you’re injured. I’ve been staying back late to try to get myself right.

“Since the new manager has come in, I’ve been watching the lads from back home and they’ve looked fantastic.

"I think we’re getting a few results, and we look good to watch. I think the fans are enjoying it, and we’ve picked up a few results as well.

"It’s a different way of playing football, and I’m just excited to get back in there and show what I can do on the ball."