Ehiogu out for two months

Middlesbrough’s England defender Ugo Ehiogu will be out of action for up to eight weeks after suffering two broken ribs and a punctured lung.

Ehiogu was still in hospital this afternoon after suffering the injuries in a collision with Blackburn’s keeper Brad Friedel yesterday.

Middlesbrough’s assistant manager Bill Beswick said: “It looks like we have lost Ugo for a period of six to eight weeks as he recovers from what is a very serious injury.

“This is the fourth serious injury of the season after those suffered by Juninho, Joseph Job and George Boateng.

“The loss of a senior player and an influential figure is going to be hard to deal with and once more it underlines the importance of building a Premier League squad of players.”

He added: “On a more positive note it does mean a rested and refreshed Ugo will be returning as we enter the vital final phase of the season and he could make a very important impact then.”

Beswick also revealed that Boro manager Steve McClaren is considering making new signings now the transfer window has opened.

He said: “The manager is always actively seeking to improve the squad and is aware of a number of potential opportunities.”