Neil Warnock warns Middlesbrough League One is an unforgiving division for big clubs

The veteran manager insists he has had no discussions with owner Steve Gibson on whether he will still be in charge for 2020-21, but either way he will have a say on the future direction.

Boro travel to Reading on Tuesday two points above the Championship relegation zone as it stands before Wigan Athletic's appeal against a 12-point deduction for going into administration is heard.

The Teessiders have not played third-tier football since 1987 and their profile has changed dramatically since thanks to a new stadium, the glamour of the Bryan Robson era and its big-name signings, a major trophy and a run to the UEFA Cup final.

But they would not be the first big club to drop into the division and struggle. Sunderland and Ipswich Town missed out on promotion this season, Leeds United spent three seasons in League One and Sheffield United six.

“I think it's an important three games in the club's history, really,” said Warnock, who has overseen two wins and three defeats since taking over as manager. “We just can't afford to get relegated but we're in that pack with everybody else and I know how easy it is to be down there.

“The problem Sunderland have is the problem Middlesbrough would have, every team that comes to your stadium, it's like Wembley, the atmosphere, the crowds, they all want to play above themselves and that's what makes it harder for clubs like Sunderland, Middlesbrough etc to come straight back up. Players do lift themselves 15, 20 per cent.

“It's hard enough in that league without people playing above themselves against you.

“I do realise how difficult it is.”

Warnock's attitude has remained consistent since he arrived – that he will not consider life beyond next season until the one is concluded. But even if he does not stay on, he will advise Gibson as to how he thinks the club should proceed.

“I've spoken to Steve on several occasions and we've always said let's get this out of the way.,” he said “I'll give a true assessment at the end of the season but at the moment we've got three massive games and I can't tell you how difficult it is to get out of that next division.

“From our point of view it's just looking at the next result. With three games to go, I think that's all we can do.”

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