Middlesbrough should use FA Cup as scouting mission for Ivan Toney

Fri 4 January 2019 6:45, UK

Middlesbrough host Peterborough United in the Third Round of the FA Cup this weekend.

Tony Pulis will be hoping that his side can triumph over Posh, who are in the league below Boro.

But Peterborough have several talented players and Middlesbrough will not be getting an easy ride at The Riverside Stadium.

As well as hoping Middlesbrough can progress to the Fourth Round, Pulis also needs to use this game to scout Ivan Toney.

The ex-Newcastle United striker made the move from St James’ Park to Peterborough last summer on a permanent basis.

And he has been thriving at The ABAX Stadium, having scored 16 goals in 33 games.

(Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

This includes 13 in his last 12 and League One looks to be below the youngster’s level.

Uncertainty surrounds Middlesbrough’s attacking options after Martin Braithwaite left to join Leganes on loan.

that Rudy Gestede is a January target for Ipswich Town and Britt Assombalonga is on Crystal Palace’s radar.

Meanwhile Jordan Hugill is only on loan from West Ham until the end of the season and ex-Hammer Ashley Fletcher has failed to impress.

But Toney is in fine form in League One and could provide the long-term answer for the North East outfit.

The 22-year-old has a point to prove and he could catch the eye of Pulis when he faces Boro this weekend.

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