Monk Calls For Calm After Traore Blunder

Boro pay penalty as Ralls delivers

- Chris Dunlavy

Star Game

BUNGLING Boro bad boy Adama Traore capped a nightmare week by gifting Cardiff a clinching late penalty.

Dropped for last week’s trip to Barnsley after turning up late for the team bus, manager Garry Monk branded the winger’s behaviour “unacceptable” and dumped him on the bench as Cardiff came to town.

Traore then spectacularly blew his shot at redemption, launching into a crazy shin-high lunge on Nathaniel Mendez-Laing just five minutes after coming on.

Referee Andy Madley had no hesitation in pointing to the spot, with Joe Ralls netting to condemn misfiring Middlesbrough to five games without a win.

The pre-season favourites, who spent £50m this summer, are now in the bottom half and manager Monk has urged edgy supporters to keep the faith.

“We understand the fans’ frustration,” said the 38-year-old, whose lengthy playing career with Swansea ensured near constant stick from the away fans.