Overview

• Middlesbrough opened the Championship with four wins from four, conceding one goal to sit top of the table in their best start for 31 years.
• Edwards beat Frank Lampard, Ryan Mason and Mark Robins to the August award, with the judging panel chaired by Danny Wilson praising Boro’s positive, disciplined play.
• He credited the recognition to the whole staff and squad, stressing that only four games have been played and consistency will determine the season.
• Pundits highlighted the upward trajectory in performances, while Sky Bet shortened Boro’s promotion odds from about 9/2 pre-season to 11/4 after the fast start.
• Appointed in June to replace Michael Carrick, Edwards frames expectations around steady improvement, targeting more goals scored, fewer conceded and sustained standards.