Middlesbrough manager Kim Hellberg has offered a positive update on several injured players ahead of the Championship season opener against Lincoln City. Striker David Strelec and midfielder Myles Peart-Harris, who were sidelined after picking up injuries in a 3-1 defeat to Huddersfield Town last weekend, are expected to return soon, though they missed the final pre-season match against Espanyol.
What injuries are Middlesbrough dealing with?
Strelec and Peart-Harris join a growing list of absentees, including Alfie Jones, Alex Bangura, Kyle Joseph, Riley McGree, and Tommy Conway, all of whom have missed the entirety of pre-season. However, Hellberg remains optimistic about their return, stating that most could be available for the Lincoln City clash in two weeks.
When could the players return?
Hellberg confirmed that Alfie Jones, Alex Bangura, Kyle Joseph, and Riley McGree are not yet training fully but could be fit for the season opener. Tommy Conway is the only player ruled out for the Lincoln match. The manager emphasized balancing their return to avoid further setbacks.
Why is this important for Middlesbrough?
After narrowly missing out on promotion in last season’s play-off final, Middlesbrough will need a fully fit squad to challenge for a top-six finish. The return of key players like Strelec and Peart-Harris could provide the necessary boost as they aim to start the season strongly against Lincoln City.
