Cup win gives Boro momentum in survival boost, says Leadbitter

Middlesbrough’s win over Oxford United in the FA Cup can give them momentum in their fight for Premier League survival, according to captain Grant Leadbitter.

The 31-year-old skipper smashed home a penalty as Boro battled past their League One opponents 3-2 at the Riverside Stadium on Saturday.

Aitor Karanka’s men take on Crystal Palace at the weekend in a crucial six-pointer in the battle to stay in the Premier League.

Boro are two points above the drop zone and have not won in the league since December 17.

However, Leadbitter feels that a winning feeling could help Boro put in the performance they need to get three points at Selhurst Park.

Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images

“We’re relieved to be in the next round,” said Leadbitter. “I think there was a contrast in performance from the first to second half.

“We just look forward to the next game. That’s what we do at the football club.

“At the end of the day we have to start winning a lot more football games and we need to win games to stay in the division.

“We were expected to win on Saturday. People might not give us credit but we did our jobs, you’ve seen other Premier League teams go out.

“So we’re happy to be in the next round and hopefully it gives the boys confidence going into the next game against Palace. It’s going to be tough but we’re really looking forward to it.”