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Championship star awkwardly forgets his wife's birthday as he chases Premier League glory
May 10 2026 13:10 · Par Bruna Reis/Senior Sports Journalist · 264 Lectures
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Middlesbrough star Callum Brittain has been so focused on his side's play‑off push that he even forgot his wife's birthday. His partner, Bethany revealed on social media that the occasion completely slipped his mind.
Brittain featured the entire 90 minutes in the goalless draw against Southampton at the Riverside Stadium. A decision will be taken to the second leg of the play-off set to take place on Tuesday (May 12, 8pm).
Boro dominated the first half but couldn't take their chances which was a familiar story in the second half of the season. Tommy Conway came closest when he struck the post.
Saints took control in the second half, as Boro were unable to keep the ball or pin their opponents back as effectively. The visitors almost won it twice in the final five minutes, but ultimately, it's still all to play for on the south coast.
As expected before the clash, Brittain knuckled down and entered full focus mode, leaving Bethany to laugh off the forgotten birthday.
Taking to Instagram , she wrote: "If any Boro fans were worried about his level of focus, he actually forgot my birthday this morning xxx. UTFB," followed by laughing and heart emojis.
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Meanwhile, the defender, a regular starter under Kim Hellberg, took to Instagram afterwards - only to be reminded once again by fans about the awkward moment.
"What an incredible atmosphere! Lost for words today, inspiring support and an amazing experience, thank you Boro fans," he wrote in a post. "The boys run themselves into the ground today and we’ll do the exact same Tuesday! UTFB."
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In the comments section, one supporter wrote: "Played with your heart on your sleeve as always. Now go and get the wife a birthday card."
Another added: "Remember it's her birthday. Class as always!" and a third continued: "I'm sorry he forgot your birthday. Happy birthday from all the Boro fans."
Another fan joked: "Worth forgetting the wife’s birthday for."
On Sunday, Boro sent Bethany a birthday gift accompanied by a handwritten letter.
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Boro will look to overcome Southampton in next week's second leg as they bid to end a 17‑year absence from the top flight. Their last Premier League campaign came in the 2008/09 season.