Middlesbrough's skipper has certainly led by example this season - and he is now out to lead his side to victory over Fulham on Saturday.

Grant Leadbitter is the man who gets Aitor Karanka's side going and he is not just supplying the ammunition but firing on all cylinders himself.

That's according to Jonathon Taylor at the Evening Gazette, who believes Leadbitter could hold the key to unlocking the Whites, who have the joint worst defence in the Championship along with Huddersfield having conceded 20 goals.

Taylor said: "Leadbitter is Boro's captain fantastic has found his shooting boots this season and leads the club's scoring charts, having found the net seven times from midfield already this season.

"His box-to-box style means he is the one who makes Boro' tick, and is almost certain to start alongside either Adam Clayton or Dean Whitehead in central midfield."

The next player identified by Taylor has not just caught the eye of the Boro' fans but also Premier League sides it seems.

Supplier: Adam Reach (second left) shoots against Liverpool

Reports have been circulating that 21-year-old left-winger Adam Reach is being monitored by teams in the top flight as he continues to impress at the Riverside.

Taylor said: "Following a good pre-season Reach has started almost every game for Boro' and is clearly liked by Aitor Karanka.

"As a result the youngster is tasked with a very important job in the Boro' machine -  supplying quality service for front men Kike and Patrick Bamford.

And it is indeed striker Kike, or to give him his full name Enrique Garcia Martinez, who Taylor has picked out as his third star man.

The summer signing from Segunda Division side Real Murcia has found the net five times in all competitions this season.

Spanish star: Kike

And according to Taylor the £2.7m recruit has taken to Championship life 'like a duck to water'.

He added: "Kike is an all-round front man. He's good in the air, has good movement and is clinical in front of goal. Give him a chance at your peril."

Keep up to date with all the build-up, matchday and post-game reaction to Middlesbrough v Fulham right here on GetWestLondon