Jonathan Woodgate delivers verdict on Birmingham touchline clash plus Patrick Roberts and Dael Fry injury updates

Middlesbrough boss Jonathan Woodgate is hopeful Patrick Roberts and Dael Fry won’t be out long term following an eventful 1-1 draw with Birmingham City.
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The pair were both forced off with hamstring issues during the Championship fixture at the Riverside, adding to Boro’s lengthy injury list.

Boro came from behind to earn a point against the Blues after Ashley Fletcher’s equaliser eight minutes from time cancelled out Lukas Jutkiewiczs first-half opener.

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The hosts also missed a penalty when the game was goalless after Roberts was fouled in the area, before Paddy McNair missed the resulting spot kick.

Middlesbrough boss Jonathan Woodgate.Middlesbrough boss Jonathan Woodgate.
Middlesbrough boss Jonathan Woodgate.

“I think if Patrick Roberts stays on the pitch we win the game, he's the difference,” said Woodgate after the match. “I thought he was just starting to get a foothold in the game, produced the penalty something out of nothing. I think if he stays fit we win the game.

“Hopefully they are not to bad, I think Patrick was more precautionary, he's had previous hamstring problems before.

“Dael again it just tightened up but that’s just volume of games, Dael has played every game since he came back really.”

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The game had lively finale after Birmingham saw a late winner ruled out when Marcus Tavernier went down with a head injury.

With emotions running high, the incident resulted in a touchline altercation which saw Boro coach Leo Percovich and Blues coach Sean Rush sent off.

When asked about the clash, Woodgate played down the late drama but and believed the goal should have been disallowed.

“Listen, if you see Leo is involved I'm going to help him,” said Woodgate. “I know Sean. Leo and Sean will meet after this, have a beer and kiss and make up and whatever they do.

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“The referee has blown it out of proportion. It’s a fracas, it happens. It's passion from both sides. It got the crowd going.

“I was charging down the line shouting head injury, he's got to stop the game. But don't forget, he was offside when he scored anyway.”