Middlesbrough boss delivers positive update on midfield duo ahead of Southampton clash

Middlesbrough manager Kim Hellberg has revealed Riley McGree could start Saturday’s Championship play-off semi-final first leg against Southampton - but stressed a recall for key midfielder Hayden Hackney could represent a ‘bigger risk’.

35-times capped Australia international McGree has made 25 appearances so far this season - but the final month of his campaign has been disrupted by injury and he was only deemed fit enough to feature as a half-time substitute in last weekend’s draw at Wrexham as Boro’s hopes of automatic promotion came to an end. However, after a full week of training, McGree is now ready to be handed a more prominent role against the Saints - but a more patient approach could be taken with Hackney as the Boro academy graduate approaches the final stages of his comeback from a thigh injury that has left him on the sidelines since a 1-1 home draw with Bristol City just under two months ago.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Hellberg said: “It’s similar to where we were before that game (at Wrexham). Riley had more time but otherwise we are similar. Hayden, progress, progressing, getting better every day. Riley, no, he is ready to go (from the start), it’s a competition for him, he’s ready. He (Hackney) has been on the pitch for the first time, on the grass. He’s been inside before so it’s a big step forward.

“If it’s possible to have him on the bench on Saturday, we will see, if it’s possible on Tuesday. He’s been doing his fitness so as soon as he is back on the grass it is possible to start a game. It’s a balance, how quickly you’re coming back to that and it can be a bigger risk in terms of that and so we will see what happens but it was a big step forwards and it’s exciting to see.”

‘A lot of emotions’

Hellberg delivered a positive assessment of where his squad are in their preparations for a two-legged tie with a Saints side that are heading into the play-offs with strong momentum. Despite missing out on a top two place after a season-long push for automatic promotion, Hellberg believes his players are happy and focused as they look to take the first step in their bid to secure a Wembley date on Saturday lunchtime.

He said: “It’s been fun, we are looking forward to what awaits, a special game. We’ll play so short (time) in between (games) against the same team. I am looking forward to it. It’s different for everyone how you handle it. But there is a lot of energy, and I think there is a lot of emotions in that. Of course, everyone has different feelings for what awaits but it’s been transformed into a lot of good energy, positive. We come from a good run of games, playing four without a loss, two away games against very strong opponents. I think in general, there are a lot happy faces, focused faces. It’s going to be fun.”

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