Injury updates for Middlesbrough vs. Birmingham City: seven out and three doubtful

The new Wayne Rooney era at Birmingham City kicks off on Saturday when he manages his first game against Middlesbrough.

After working with his team for a little more than a week, the 37-year-old has gotten to know the players a little better. A number of Blues players, including Neil Etheridge and Jordan James, left to represent their nation; in the latter’s instance, they would have gone to other continents.

Michael Carrick, a former teammate from Manchester United and England, will be the opponent in Rooney’s debut match as manager. During a trophy-filled era at Old Trafford, Rooney spent the bulk of his playing career playing alongside Carrick, appearing in 366 games together.

After taking over for Chris Wilder as manager of Boro, Carrick guided the team from relegation candidates to play-off semi-finalists. Although Boro’s 2023–24 campaign has started slowly, they are in good form and defeated rivals Sunderland 4-0 at the Stadium of Light prior to the international break.

On paper, Birmingham ought to be high on confidence as well, having triumphed against West Brom and Huddersfield Town in a doubleheader the week prior to the international break. Just four points separate the Blues and Boro at the halfway stage of the season, indicating how tight the division is. The Blues are currently ranked sixth.

Below is the latest team news of both Birmingham City and Middlesbrough, ahead of their EFL Championship clash at the Riverside Stadium:

1. Lee Buchanan – out

After rolling his ankle during a workout, Lee Buchanan could not be back until mid-November. Despite being sent off against Watford, he started all seven of the league games in which he was eligible to play.

2. Lee Buchanan – out (continued)

“Lee Buchanan got injured on Monday and he will be out for four or five weeks, which is a massive blow to us,” John Eustace told Birmingham Live.One of the league’s top left backs, Lee has been an incredible player. He suffered a serious injury on the training field and is currently experiencing severe straining. Possible comeback: November 4th, Ipswich Town (H)

3. Lewis O’Brien – out

Summertime acquisition Due to surgery for a lower leg injury he sustained against Watford last month, Lewis O’Brien may be sidelined for up to three months.

4. George Hall – out

George Hall had a hamstring strain during the Carabao Cup loss to Cardiff City at the end of August. Amidst rumors of Premier League interest, he committed his future to Blues by signing a new contract with the team.

5. George Hall – out (continued)

Eustace said that Hall was “progressing nicely,” but he was estimated to be three to four weeks away, so he is probably going to miss it. Possible date of return: Hull City (H) on October 25, Southampton (A) on October 28, or Ipswich Town (H) on November 4

6. Sonny Finch – out

Sonny Finch sustained a right ankle injury during the preseason. In the preseason, he was starting to establish himself as a first-team member, but an injury hurt his chances.

7. Ethan Laird – doubtful

Ethan Laird, who injured his hamstring against Bristol City in mid-August, was listed as being “10–15” days out. In Wayne Rooney’s first game, Cody Drameh, who has started in his place, might be given the start. Possible comeback dates: Middlesbrough (A) on October 21 or Southampton (A) on October 28.

8. Matthew Clarke – out

It has taken him more than a year to recover from a back ailment, and he has only lately begun playing for Boro’s under-21 team.

9. Alfie Chang – out

Had a severe knee injury while training that necessitated surgery. It took him eight or nine months to get used to using crutches. A choice about his future must be made because his contract expires in the summer.

10. : Rav van den Berg – doubtful

Pulled up during the pregame warm-up for Middlesbrough’s previous game against Sunderland. did not participate in any international matches for the Netherlands under-21 team.

11. Tyler Roberts – out

Experienced a calf ailment versus Swansea City and then developed a fresh problem in the middle of August. Having been injured for about eight weeks, he is not anticipated to participate in the match against Middlesbrough.

12. Riley McGree – doubt

Suffered an injury to his foot when playing Cardiff City prior to the international break. did not play against New Zealand and was not utilized as a substitute against England.

13. Keshi Anderson – out

On September 22, Anderson sustained a hamstring injury during the QPR draw. John Eustace, the manager who signed him, stated he would be sidelined for “six to eight weeks.” Possible dates of return: Wednesday, November 25, Sheffield Wednesday (H), or November 11, Sunderland (A)

14. Darragh Lenihan – doubtful

Missed the victory over Sunderland due to a health issue. It’s unclear if he will be available because he has a few bothersome injuries.