Middlesbrough head coach Kim Hellberg is brimming with quiet confidence as his side prepares for a pivotal Championship play-off showdown at Southampton on Tuesday. After a tense goalless first leg, the stage is set for a thrilling second leg at St Mary's, where Boro aim to secure a spot in the Wembley final.

Hellberg, whose team has shown remarkable resilience on the road, believes their attacking prowess and strong away form will be key. "We are strong away from home, having lost only one of our last ten games," he told BBC Radio Tees. "We've scored against every team since then, and we know we're a very good football team. We took a lot of confidence from the first leg performance, and we'll use that going into this game. We know we can beat any team in this league."

Boro's only league defeat on the road since New Year's Day came at Championship winners Coventry City, though they've drawn their last four away matches. That defensive solidity, combined with their attacking flair, gives Hellberg reason to believe his side can overcome the Saints.

However, there's a notable absence in midfield: Hayden Hackney remains sidelined with a calf injury, having missed nine games since going off against Bristol City on March 14. Hellberg confirmed Hackney won't feature in the second leg but hinted at a potential return for the final if Boro advance on May 23.

The Swede remained tight-lipped on the "spygate" allegations that have seen Southampton charged with spying on Boro's training, preferring to focus on the football. "A lot of people like the way we play," he said proudly. "It's a very brave way of doing it. That first half of the play-off game was unbelievable. We're honest in our approach, trying to play offensive football, and there are a lot of people who appreciate that."

As Boro gear up for this high-stakes clash, fans can expect a side that plays with heart, skill, and relentless positivity—qualities that make them a joy to watch and a tough opponent to beat.