Update emerges in Steve Gibson and Mel Morris battle ahead of Middlesbrough v Derby clash

Middlesbrough owner Steve Gibson and ex-Derby County custodian Mel Morris have finally opened talks regarding Boro’s financial claim against the Rams, according to Sportsmail.

The two teams face-off against each other in Championship action this weekend and there’s heightened tensions following Gibson’s decision months ago to make a £40 million claim due to Derby’s financial mismanagements costing the Teessiders a place in the play-offs in 2019.

Security has been ramped up for the clash with the relationship between the two clubs strained with Gibson being very outspoken in recent weeks about the lack of communication from County’s administrators.

After months of silence, Morris emerged from the shadows last week for the first time since placing Derby into administration by revealing that he was willing to handle both Boro’s and Wycombe Wanderers’ claims himself in order for Quantuma to fully press ahead with finding a buyer for the club.

Consortiums have been reluctant to commit with the Boro and Chairboys’ charges hanging over the clubs head but with Gibson and Morris now in contact there could be further positive developments in the pipeline.

The Verdict

This is good news ahead of what could potentially be a volatile clash this weekend at the Riverside Stadium.

Morris re-appeared at a time where he was most needed and whilst Derby fans will not forgive him for the state he has left the club in, the least he could do is take some responsibility for other clubs claims which is what he’s appearing to do.

It may become apparent that the claims themselves will not hold up, but the pressure needs to be taken off the club’s administrators in order for them to name a preferred bidder and so a takeover can progress.

The timing