Grant Leadbitter: 'We wanted to be top of the table - and now we're there to stay'

Skipper Grant Leadbitter believes table-topping Boro have what it takes to hang on to top spot for the rest of the season.

Boro dug deep to earn a valuable point at St Andrew's last night , playing the entire second half with 10 men after Dimi Konstantopoulos was sent off.

There is no time for rest, however, with Boro now gearing up for Saturday's lunchtime clash with rivals Leeds United.

A victory would put Aitor Karanka's men four points clear at the summit before the 3pm kick-offs, and Leadbitter hopes Boro have what it takes to finish the job and clinch promotion to the Premier League.

"We’re never happy with a point at this football club," Leadbitter told the club's website .

"The manager has instilled a winning mentality at every level, U18s, U21s and the first team.”

"(Leeds) should be another tough game. Hopefully there will be a good crowd and we do what we’re good at.

“It was difficult last night, but I felt in the second half we were in control of the game. I’m disappointed not to have won, but it was a really good performance from the boys. We dug in together, we’re a team and a close knit unit.

“The manager’s team talk at half time was really good. There were a few harsh words and what was needed to be said was said. We wanted to get to the top of the table. Now we’re there we want to stay there.

"There is a long, long, long way to go. I’m sure we have good enough characters in the dressing room to see this through. The group sticks together, there is quality in it and we play good football.”

Leadbitter also heaped praise on Boro's travelling army, with more than 1,000 fans cheering the team on at St Andrew's.

Credit Media Image Ltd

Boro Fans at Elland Road in August

More than 22,000 tickets have already been sold for Saturday's match with Leeds , and Boro's fans continue to be inspired by the team's form on the pitch.

"They were brilliant again, just as they were at night last week at Blackpool," Leadbitter added.

"I’d like to thank them for making the journey to Birmingham on a Wednesday night, especially when they’ve probably been to Arsenal and Blackpool and have work the next day.

“At least we gave them a point which took us top of the league.”