McClaren set for festive disruption
Middlesbrough manager Steve McClaren must cope with another injury blow to his heavily depleted squad as he prepares to begin a hectic festive schedule with the midweek Carling Cup clash with Blackburn.
James Morrison is almost certain to miss out on the entire Christmas programme after being knocked unconscious in an accidental collision with Robbie Keane during yesterday’s entertaining 3-3 draw.
The 19-year-old was carried from the field strapped to a stretcher but he quickly regained consciousness in the dressing room.
Boro will make a decision on Morrison’s fitness today but the likelihood is he will be ruled out for two weeks – as is the norm for injuries of this type.
“It is concussion so we will have to assess it and see how bad it is,” said McClaren.
The Boro boss has conceded none of his injury-hit stars – including the latest addition to the treatment table Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink – are likely to return for the Carling Cup tie.
