Middlesbrough boss Gareth Southgate admits it's been difficult switching from being a player to a manager in the last 12 months.

He told Boro's website: "I think there is a clear difference between being a player and a manager and that's something I've had to come to terms with during the course of the season.

"Yes it's been difficult but I don't expect next year to be any easier.

"We want to progress from what we have already done. It was certainly a transitional season of getting use to the role.

"But we have to improve and that will bring its own pressures and problems."

He added: "It's certainly been an education, there are situations that I have been involved in that I'd never of encountered.

"It's been a real fascinating life experience and I've enjoyed the challenge."