Middlesbrough have just had one of their best transfer windows for many years.
Boro fans should be well aware of just what a mess their club’s transfer windows have been in previous years.
However, now Kieran Scott is Head of Football and Michael Carrick has had time to establish himself in the dugout, Middlesbrough have seen a massive improvement in their recruitment.
The 2024 summer transfer window was the perfect example of this, with the Teessiders focused on adding quality depth, rather than completely overhauling their squad like they have done in recent summers.
All told, nine new players arrived at the Riverside Stadium over the last few months and several have already shone in a Boro shirt.
Delano Burgzorg impressed Carrick after his performance in the 3-0 win over bitter rivals Leeds United last month.
Luke Ayling was Middlesbrough’s best player vs Portsmouth despite playing out of position at centre-back.
But it is another Boro summer signing who has stolen the show in the early stages of the campaign.
Aidan Morris named Middlesbrough signing of the summer
Aidan Morris joined the North East outfit for £3.18m from MLS side Columbus Crew in July.
The 22-year-old had no experience in England prior to the move but already, Morris has been praised for his Middlesbrough performances.
With Jonny Howson sidelined, the American has started every Championship fixture this term and has become one of Boro’s best players.
Now, speaking to the Northern Echo in a Q & A, journalists Dominic Shaw and Scott Wilson both named Morris as Middlesbrough’s best signing this summer.
Wilson said: “Aidan Morris. Senior Boro officials were always excited about their American import, but even they cannot have imagined him making such an immediate impact. From the minute he walked into the team during pre-season, Morris has oozed class.
“He looks like an all-round midfielder – strong and powerful enough to handle himself in the Championship, but composed and creative enough on the ball to offer a real threat from the central positions.”
Shaw said: “Aidan Morris has settled so quickly and impressively and already looks a key player this season.”
Why Aidan Morris signing is bad news for Jonny Howson
Boro will be delighted with how the USA international has fared since making the move to the Riverside.
Morris has been a revelation in the centre of the park and could go on to form a Grant Leadbitter – Adam Clayton-style partnership with Hayden Hackney for many years to come.
However, now Morris has cemented himself as an important player for Carrick, it is hard to see Howson getting back into the starting line-up.
The 36-year-old missed the season opener versus Swansea City before returning and picking up a hamstring problem against Leeds.
Howson is due back soon but Carrick will have a hard time fitting him into the team given how well Morris is playing.
The former Norwich City man remains Boro captain but as he is in the final year of his contract and unlikely to keep playing beyond this season, his time as a Middlesbrough regular could already be over despite him previously being such an important player for the club.