Middlesbrough reaction: Garry Monk impressed by Boro reaction to Adama Traore dismissal

Boro winger Adama Traore was sent off after just four minutes but Villa could not take advantage before losing Henri Lansbury to a red card midway through the second half.

"I thought we started the game exceptionally well on the front foot. But you have to face adversity. We did that after Traore was sent off so early in the match and that was the most pleasing aspect of the game for me.

"It was more than a point. It was good to see the true character and the true mentality of the group.

"There are a lot of new players in a squad gelling together. Knowing this will stand them in good stead going forward.

"We have to build from clean sheets and if we put together a strong defence ethic we will able to win games and be in a good position."