---
title: "Amario Cozier-Duberry Given High Praise After Middlesbrough Debut"
canonical: "https://readbrighton.com/2026/09/09/amario-cozier-duberry-given-high-praise-after-middlesbrough-debut/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "James Chettle"
section: "Brighton News"
published: "2026-09-09T14:47:32Z"
modified: "2026-09-22T12:06:12Z"
---

# Amario Cozier-Duberry Given High Praise After Middlesbrough Debut

Amario Cozier-Duberry delivered an eye-catching performance for Middlesbrough in their Carabao Cup tie against Crystal Palace following his deadline-day loan move from Brighton.

The 21-year-old winger committed his future to Albion until 2029 before switching to Teesside on September 1. His high-pressing display at Selhurst Park immediately demonstrated why Fabian Hürzeler selected Kim Hellberg’s system to develop the prospect. Despite a 3-0 defeat, Boro dominated possession and recorded 52 touches in the opposition box.

## Adapting To Physical Demands

Hellberg highlighted the forward’s pressing intensity, an attribute essential for eventually securing a regular place in Hürzeler’s squad. While Roberto De Zerbi previously experienced [tactical flaws and pitfalls](https://readbrighton.com/?p=4408) out of possession, the current head coach demands relentless defensive energy. This aggressive off-the-ball approach is encouraged club-wide, recently seen when the [women forced a tactical battle](https://readbrighton.com/2026/09/07/brighton-women-force-tactical-battle-in-narrow-arsenal-defeat/) domestically.

Speaking to [Teesside Live](https://www.gazettelive.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/amario-cozier-duberry-prediction-made-34588354), the Middlesbrough manager praised the immediate impact of his new signing.

“I think he was excellent. He was excellent in how he defended, in how he was one-against-one, in how he set people up. I think he was excellent with all that, especially being here for just one week.”

## Creating Attacking Chances In Possession

The winger generated three goal attempts and matched Palace’s entire tally of nine penalty-area touches on his own, as noted by The Argus. Hellberg was quick to point out this dual threat.

“He’s a small boy, but the intensity of how he defends, how he powers at everything he sees, and then the quality on the ball to set up players. I think he was involved in all our chances and had one great chance when he went in from the right.”

The loanee will now aim to secure a regular starting position in the Championship to accelerate his senior development.