11:09, 28 Nov 2025<\/p>\n
![\"David](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/0_Leicester-City-v-Middlesbrough-Sky-Bet-Championship.jpg\")
David Strelec of Middlesbrough(Image: Getty Images)<\/p>\n
Middlesbrough have received a fitness boost ahead of Derby County<\/a>‘s visit this weekend, with David Strelec anticipated to return to the squad. Nevertheless, their defensive injury woes show little sign of improvement.<\/p>\n The Slovakian forward has been absent from Boro’s previous two matches since the latest international break. Caretaker manager Adi Viveash disclosed that the striker had sustained a knock whilst on international duty and, after attempting to train through it, was compelled to withdraw from the session before the trip to Oxford.<\/p>\n He was subsequently referred to a specialist in London and has been given the all-clear. His availability on Saturday would complete a full attacking contingent for Boro, although the situation remains more concerning regarding injuries elsewhere.<\/p>\n New head coach Kim Hellberg acknowledges he will continue to be depleted in defensive areas, as Dael Fry persists in his efforts to overcome his calf complaint. George Edmundson (hip) and Darragh Lenihan (Achilles) are both sidelined for extended periods.<\/p>\n Whilst Fry and Edmundson might unexpectedly become available, it remains highly unlikely this will occur before the weekend<\/a>, reports Teesside Live<\/a>.<\/p>\n Hellberg said: “Strelec trained today so that’s good. I think on the offensive part of the pitch we had most training.<\/p>\n “We had a bit of a struggle with the defenders, but that’s how it is. For me, it’s just a case of working with the players I have as much as possible.”<\/p>\n The newly appointed Middlesbrough manager experienced his first taste of the Riverside on Tuesday evening, as he was introduced to fans on the pitch prior to the loss against Coventry City.<\/p>\n As he gears up to manage a match from the sidelines, he confessed that the midweek atmosphere has certainly whetted his appetite.<\/p>\n “It was a wow moment,” he said. “I got a little bit of goosebumps when I stepped out on Tuesday evening. That was amazing and a proud moment for me.<\/p>\n “The reception from the fans was amazing. It will be one step more now when there also is a little bit of nervous energy for the game in a different way. But I’m looking forward to Saturday very, very much.”<\/p>\n Hellberg is largely unknown in a Championship capacity, although he is well-regarded having guided Swedish outfit Hammarby to consecutive second place finishes.<\/p>\n As for Derby<\/a>, they are still waiting for the final results to determine a more definitive prognosis on how long former Luton striker Carlton Morris will be sidelined.<\/p>\n What changes should Eustace make? Have your say here<\/a><\/p>\n Sky Sports discounted Premier League and EFL package<\/p>\n This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more<\/a> \u00a349<\/p>\n \u00a335<\/p>\n Sky<\/p>\n![\"Content](\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/1764346102_469_0_Sky-Factbox.jpg\")
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