Middlesbrough put on a brilliant display on how to meticulously dispatch an opponent, as they ran 4-0 winners over Preston North End.

Kim Hellberg’s side were ruthless and took advantage of a very drastically poor performance from Preston, who have now suffered their fourth defeat in a row in all competitions – without scoring a goal.

Goals from former PNE man Alan Browne, Morgan Whittaker, and a brace from Tommy Conway put aside the Lancashire club with ease, made even easier with Jordan Storey’s dismissal from the match in the second half, although this time, rather controversially.

This defeat has all but confirmed the alarm bells that have been ringing about the Lilywhites and their capabilities of achieving the play-offs this season, with Paul Heckingbottom’s mirroring performances of old as of late.

We’re starting to see the importance of Harrison Armstrong and how his recall back to Everton has significantly affected Preston North End, as well as the lack of incomings which has been desperately required if they wanted to solidify their odds of reaching the play-offs.

However, remaining stagnant in the market and pressure for on the pitch performances seems to be resulting into...