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Middlesbrough 1-2 Southampton: Steve Agnew refuses to be drawn on future after loss

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Middlesbrough’s Steve Agnew insists no decision has been made as to who will be the next permanent boss

Steve Agnew refused to be drawn on whether he will be at the Middlesbrough helm next season after his side's 2-1 defeat against Southampton.

The caretaker boss saw his side beaten thanks to goals from Jay Rodriguez and Nathan Redmond either side of half time, ensuring Boro will finish the season with their lowest ever Premier League points total.

Fans voiced their discontent all afternoon, with some even chanting former manager Aitor Karanka's name. Agnew understands why fans are frustrated after a disappointing campaign, and insisted no decision has been made as to who will be the next permanent boss.

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Middlesbrough 1-2 Southampton

"It is not about my situation," Agnew told Sky Sports. "It is about the football club and what we need to do to return to the Premier League as soon as possible.

"The first season back in the Premier League is always very difficult and we have been unable to stay in the league, which is frustrating.

"It is understandable that the supporters are frustrated. What you did see at the end was the players were supportive of the crowd, and they got a reaction back from supporters. It is a terrific football club, and this togetherness will help everyone moving forward."

Patrick Bamford did give the home side hope with 18 minutes to go at the Riverside, but the low-scoring hosts couldn't find an equaliser.

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The headed strike was Bamford's first for over two years, and Agnew was delighted to see the 23-year-old end his goalscoring drought.

"Patrick has had a difficult time of things over the last 18 months and I am really, really pleased for him," Agnew added.

"He is a terrific boy, a very talented young player, and will be a real asset for the football club in the future."

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