This is when Britt Assombalonga is set to return for Middlesbrough

The forward has been sidelined in recent weeks with an ankle issue, but returned to training on Sunday ahead of the visit of Birmingham City.

And while he will not be fit for the visit of the Blues, Woodgate expects he will be welcomed back into the fold for the clash with Tony Mowbray’s men next month.

Woodgate also confirmed he had no fresh injury concerns after the defeat at Fulham.

“All good,” said the Boro boss, when quizzed on injuries.

“Britt trained today. He won’t be available for Tuesday, but he should be available for the next game against Blackburn which is two weeks away.

“I’m looking forward to having him back. He’s a really, really good player and you know what I think of Britt.”

Woodgate’s side will be looking to bounce back after seeing their unbeaten run come to an end at Craven Cottage on Friday, and face a Birmingham side who brushed aside Boro earlier this term.

“It has to come to an end somehow and sometime,” said Woodgate of the unbeaten run.

“We’ve got a chance now to beat Birmingham, which is another big game for us.

“We’ve been doing well at home so hopefully that continues.

“They’ve been inconsistent, a bit like us, but they’ve got some really good players.

“They played well down there and were the better team by a mile, so we really owe them one.”