With four wins in four, there won’t be too much of Middlesbrough ’s early-season work that disappoints new head coach Rob Edwards. But when asked to identify what’s been particularly pleasing for him so far, rather than the wins or manner of performances, it’s one fundamental change he’s brought about that tops the lot.

Sprint distance is up considerably among Boro ’s players so far this season - with Edwards seeing his players react positively to his demands for high intensity football. Many Boro players have noted since the start of the season that it’s been a tough summer as the new head coach got his players in shape for the new intensity of their play, but clearly, they’re getting their rewards for it.

Edwards explained: “When we came in we talked a lot about intensity. The la

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