Reiziger back for Boro

Middlesbrough defender Michael Reiziger has played his first match since injuring a shoulder in August.

The 31-year-old former Dutch international played 72 minutes for the reserves in a 1-0 home defeat by Birmingham last night after an absence of almost three months, and came through unscathed, although he is well short of full match-fitness.

Reiziger initially injured his shoulder during a pre-season game against Hansa Rostock in Germany, and then aggravated the problem in the 5-3 Barclays Premiership defeat at Arsenal on August 22.

He underwent surgery to repair the damage and his rehabilitation is now complete and he is ready to fight for his place.

Reiziger, a free signing from Barcelona during the summer, saw Stuart Parnaby take his place before he broke his leg, and youngster Tony McMahon is currently in possession of the right-back spot.