As Kim Hellberg’s arrival approaches, sources say he has already planned significant changes to Middlesbrough’s backroom setup, including giving interim manager Adi Viveash a new job within the club.
The Swedish coach has already become a discussion point in the Championship after turning down Swansea City in preference of Boro, and he now heads to Teesside to build on Rob Edwards’ foundations.
Middlesbrough, who are said to have spent roughly £250,000 in compensation to get Hellberg, would be keen for him to strike the ground running, though the early days have been anything but easy.
Viveash is expected to continue in control for Saturday’s encounter against Oxford United, which means Hellberg’s first game in command will most likely be against table-topping Coventry City. If things remain consistent until then, a debut win for the new manager could move Boro within one point of the Championship leaders. All eyes will be on how the 37-year-old prepares his team for the challenge. Hellberg normally uses a 4-2-3-1 style, which Middlesbrough utilized frequently under Edwards, which should help the players transition quickly.
However, the new manager is not waiting to undertake additional modifications. According to reports, he has already begun an urgent restructuring of his support personnel, including a new job for Viveash. The interim coach has completely earned the opportunity after taking over after Edwards left, guiding Boro to a 2-1 victory over Birmingham City and giving much-needed stability throughout the changeover. His presence should also help Hellberg adjust to his new role more easily.
Hellberg will also be joined by an intriguing addition, Selini. Despite being only 31 years old, the Hammarby assistant, who has worked with the Swede for just over a year, appears to be ready to follow him to the Championship.
Middlesbrough have put a lot of faith in Hellberg and his right-hand man, and they’ll be hoping that their daring risk pays off in the form of a genuine promotion challenge.
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