When Ashley Fletcher could return for Middlesbrough as Neil Warnock assesses centre-back options ahead of January transfer window

Fletcher finished as Boro’s top scorer last season but hasn’t played since September’s 1-1 draw with Bournemouth when he suffered the setback.

When asked about Fletcher by the Mail ahead of Wednesday’s meeting with Swansea, Warnock said: “We do miss him, he's got something different to the other strikers.

“You just have to get on with it and hope he comes through his rehabilitation in the next few weeks ready to start.

“It's nice to have someone like Ashley ready to play or on the bench.

“I was told the end of January. I haven't asked the last few weeks, I've got that many other things on my mind. I’ll probably ask now you’ve mentioned it.”

Boro have also been dealt another injury blow with defender Grant Hall set to be sidelined for four months with a thigh injury.

Warnock was therefore asked if Boro will be looking to sign another centre-back during the January transfer window but insisted teenager Nathan Wood, who made his league debut against Nottingham Forest in October, can step up.

“You're always looking but Woodsy has done ever so well so he has to be ready,” replied Warnock when asked about centre-back targets.

“He did well against Forest, he's training hard. He's chomping at the bit for an opportunity, so that wouldn't worry me at all if any of the lads got injured.”

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