Middlesbrough boss Jonathan Woodgate provides injury and Britt Assombalonga update ahead of Stoke City clash

Middlesbrough boss Jonathan Woodgate is hopeful top scorer Britt Assombalonga will be available for Friday’s crucial Championship meeting against Stoke City.

By Joe Nicholson

Published 19th Dec 2019, 08:58 BST

Updated 19th Dec 2019, 09:56 BST

Britt Assombalonga has missed Middlesbrough's last two games through injury.

The Boro frontman has missed his side’s last two games after he was forced off in the recent 1-0 win over Charlton at the Riverside.

Woodgate’s injury list has shortened in recent weeks, yet the Boro boss will still be without long-term absentees Darren Randolph, George Friend and Ryan Shotton against the Potters.

When asked about injuries, Woodgate said: “Britt will train today, Friend out, Randolph out, Shotton out. Marcus Browne suspended, Paddy McNair suspended.”

When asked about Assombalonga, Woodgate added: “I’ve been very vocal of my support of Britt all season and he brings something extra to the team when he plays.

“When defenders are playing against him, they don’t like playing against him so it will be a bonus if we can have him fit for the festive period.