Will Lankshear's spectacular second-half strike proved enough for Middlesbrough to beat Championship rivals Wrexham and progress in the Carabao Cup.

Lankshear, a big money summer signing from Tottenham, struck in the 61st minute when he produced a clinical scissor kick that found the far corner.

The result was no less than Kim Hellberg's side deserved, although the Riverside crowd did endure some nervy moments late on as the visitors pressed for a leveller.

Boro handed starts to three of their summer arrivals, and Lankshear missed a golden early chance when he was denied by Wrexham keeper Danny Ward at point-blank range.

The striker also headed over, while at the other end Jacob Mendy had a low effort blocked by Sol Brynn with the goal at his mercy.

Another Wrexham counter-attack yielded a chance early in the second half, but Sam Smith lost his footing as he went through on goal.

After his side went behind Phil Parkinson rang the changes in a bid to find more urgency, handing a first club appearance to new signing Ben Whiteman.

However, it was Boro who could have doubled their lead when substitute George Edmundson headed wastefully off target.

Morgan Whittaker also went close, but ultimately Lankshear's strike proved enough to ensure Hellberg's men will take a win into their Championship opener with Lincoln on Saturday, 15 August.