Gareth Southgate claims Emanuel Pogatetz has cast off his 'Mad Dog' tag.
Middlesbrough manager Gareth Southgate claims Emanuel Pogatetz has cast off his 'Mad Dog' tag.
Southgate claims Pogatetz felt compelled to justify the nickname last season, but is now producing football of a more cerebral nature.
The Boro boss claims Pogatetz, who has been booked just twice this season, is a reformed character.
"I don't think being called Mad Dog did him any favours," said Southgate.
"Last season he felt he had to live up to his reputation. He's quite a sensitive guy and that Mad Dog has disappeared completely, he's not that any more."
Jonathan Woodgate's performances at the heart of Boro's defence have courted column inches this season, but Southgate believes Pogatetz has been the unsung hero.
"Manny's been an absolute revelation for us. Woody's taken the plaudits, but Manny's been outstanding," added Southgate.
