Middlesbrough manager Kim Hellberg announced on Tuesday that several injured players are expected back soon, aiming to field a stronger side for the season opener against Lincoln City. The striker David Strelec and midfielder Myles Peart‑Harris, both sidelined after a 3‑1 loss to Huddersfield Town, are among those nearing recovery.
Which players are still out?
Hellberg confirmed that Strelec and Peart‑Harris missed the final pre‑season friendly, a 3‑3 draw with Espanyol, and will need a short spell before returning to full training. He also listed Alfie Jones, Alex Bangura, Kyle Joseph, Riley McGree and Tommy Conway as missing the entire pre‑season, though Conway is the only one not expected to be fit for the first league game.
How does this affect the squad?
The manager stressed that the absentees are crucial to Boro’s ambitions after last season’s play‑off final disappointment. With the team sitting fifth in the Championship last season – 80 points from 46 games, a 22‑14‑10 record and recent form LLDDW – the depth of the squad will be tested. Hellberg hopes the returning players can help improve the recent 0W‑1D‑4L run, highlighted by a 1‑0 defeat to Hull City on 23 May 2026.
When can they return?
Hellberg said the injured group should be ready for the opening fixture against Lincoln City in two weeks, noting that “they are not training fully yet, so it’s about getting the balance right of when they return.” He added that the club aims to have most of the listed players available for the match, which could be a turning point after a disappointing pre‑season.
What’s next for Middlesbrough?
Beyond the injury updates, the club looks ahead to its next league challenge away at Burnley on 2 September 2026. With a goal difference of +25 (72 scored, 47 conceded) and sitting 15 points behind leaders Coventry, the Boro will need a fit squad to climb the table. Hellberg’s optimism about the injury recoveries offers a hopeful narrative as the team prepares for its first competitive match of the campaign.
