Former Middlesbrough captain Jonny Howson has returned to Teesside to join two other celebrated figures from the club’s history for a memorable evening marking the 150th anniversary of the Riverside club.

The ex-Boro midfielder was among the special guests at a live event organised by The Northern Echo, bringing together supporters and former players to celebrate the people and unforgettable moments that have helped shape Middlesbrough Football Club over the years.

Howson shared the occasion with Craig Hignett, the man who scored the first goal at the Riverside Stadium, and Andrew Taylor, who played an important role in the team’s historic journey to the 2006 UEFA Cup final.

The trio appeared at the inaugural live edition of You Are My Boro, the newspaper’s dedicated Middlesbrough podcast hosted by Scott Wilson and Dominic Shaw, which features two episodes every week.

The event took place at Pitch Sports Bar in Middlesbrough, where 150 supporters gathered to mark the club’s milestone anniversary alongside three men who have made significant contributions to its story.

Jonny Howson Reunites With Boro Heroes for Historic Occasion

The anniversary celebration provided an opportunity for supporters to revisit some of the defining moments in Middlesbrough’s history through the experiences of players who witnessed them firsthand.

Hignett took fans back to the early years of the Riverside Stadium, sharing memories of his playing days and stories about some of the famous teammates he encountered, including Brazilian star Juninho and Italian forward Fabrizio Ravanelli.

His place in the club’s history is particularly special because he scored the first-ever goal at the Riverside, securing his name in the stadium’s folklore from the very beginning.

Andrew Taylor also reflected on a memorable period in Boro’s development. After winning the FA Youth Cup, the defender progressed into the senior team under manager Steve McClaren and became part of the squad that enjoyed a remarkable European adventure.

Taylor featured in the unforgettable comeback against Steaua Bucharest, when Middlesbrough overturned a difficult situation to secure their place in the 2006 UEFA Cup final.

That extraordinary European night remains one of the most celebrated matches in the club’s history. Supporters recently voted the comeback their greatest-ever game as part of the anniversary edition of the Boro 150 magazine.

Howson Reflects on His Memorable Middlesbrough Career

Howson’s appearance was equally significant, given the lasting impression he made during his eight-year spell on Teesside.

The former captain made more than 300 appearances for Middlesbrough, becoming a respected figure among supporters through his commitment, leadership and consistent performances in midfield.

Now 38, Howson was able to share behind-the-scenes stories from his time at the club, offering fans a personal insight into his experiences and the memories he collected while representing the Teesside side.

His return for the anniversary event highlighted the enduring relationship between former players and the supporters who continue to celebrate their contributions long after their playing careers have moved on.

Dominic Shaw praised the three guests for their impact on Middlesbrough, explaining that each had helped create lasting memories for the club and its fanbase.

He said: “Craig, Andrew and Jonny all left a mark on the club and wrote their names into the history books during their spells at Boro.

“It was fantastic to have them all together and to hear their stories. It was a brilliant night.”

Middlesbrough’s 150th Anniversary Celebrates Generations of History

The gathering was more than simply a reunion of former players. It was a celebration of the achievements, personalities and defining occasions that have shaped Middlesbrough across 150 years.

From Hignett’s place in Riverside Stadium history to Taylor’s involvement in the unforgettable European campaign and Howson’s years of service as a modern-day club favourite, the three guests represented different chapters of Boro’s story.

The event also marked the beginning of what organisers hope will become a series of live podcast evenings featuring special guests connected to the club.

Supporters can subscribe to You Are My Boro to follow future episodes, while a limited number of copies of the commemorative Boro 150 magazine also remain available.

For Middlesbrough fans, the evening offered a welcome opportunity to reconnect with familiar faces, relive iconic memories and celebrate the people who have helped make the club what it is today.

With 150 years of history behind them, the reunion of Howson, Hignett and Taylor was a fitting tribute to the players and memories that continue to unite generations of Boro supporters. 🔴⚪