AMID an impressive start to the season at Middlesbrough, Kim Hellberg has learnt one valuable lesson.

During three-game weeks that seriously test all Championship clubs, it comes into particular focus.

Sides with the strongest squads are usually the ones who find themselves competing at the business end of the table. Hellberg's Boro are a case in point.

On the back of arguably their best result and performance of the season seven days ago against a strong Wolves side, Hellberg still made changes for Tuesday's game at Stoke City - and the decision proved a wise one.

Middlesbrough head coach Kim Hellberg, pictured in the EFL Cup tie against Doncaster Rovers. Picture: Jonathan Gawthorpe

placeholder image — Middlesbrough head coach Kim Hellberg, pictured in the EFL Cup tie against Doncaster Rovers. Picture: Jonathan Gawthorpe

Last month, Boro also headed into a midweek game following an eye-catching win, but on this occasion the Swede named the same starting XI - barring one enforced change through injury - after defeating Norwich City and the Teessiders produced a largely below-par showing in a draw with Millwall three days later.

On the importance of squad strength, head coach Hellberg, who promoted Luke Ayling and Jeremy Sarmiento to the starting line-up at Stoke, said: "Especially in this league, it's absolutely massive. That's what this (Championship) is all about.

"I know there's a lot in terms of not changing a team that wins and not doing it like this.

"But what it's all about is that you manage a squad over 46 games.

Middlesbrough's Luke Ayling (centre) and Millwall's Jenson Metcalfe (right) battle for the ball during the Sky Bet Championship match at Riverside Stadium, Middlesbrough.

"And I think that's why we are so impressive as it's impossible to know what is going to get up against you.

"I think that is what took Stoke by surprise. I think the first 50 minutes was one of the best starts I have ever seen a team deliver away from home against that type of side.

"It was almost ridiculous in terms of controlling the game and that's what we can do with the players we have.

"And that's also important throughout a season. I remember after the Norwich game, I was disappointed in myself for not finding the right way into the Millwall game and I think I've found a better balance in terms of that now.

"I am so happy to have this type of squad and work with them every day because they can do so many things."