Huth on comeback trail

Middlesbrough defender Robert Huth will continue his fight for match-fitness when he turns out for the reserves against Manchester United tonight.

The 22-year-old German international, a £6m suummer signing from Chelsea, will figure in a strong second string for the game at the Riverside Stadium.

Huth made his senior debut in the 1-0 Carling Cup defeat by Notts County last week, but manager Gareth Southgate wants him to get more football under his belt before he considers him for the Premiership.

The Berlin-born player finally completed his move to Teesside just hours ahead of the transfer deadline after recovering from ankle surgery.

He will be joined in the team tonight by fellow new arrival Herold Goulon, who is in line to make his first competitive start for the club.

Goulon joined Boro from Lyon and spent three years at the French National Football Academy.

The 18-year-old defensive midfielder, who stands 6ft 4ins tall, signed a three-year contract during the summer.

George Boateng and Stewart Downing are also winning their fitness battle ahead of Saturday’s Premiership trip to Sheffield United.

Boateng, 31, has missed the last three games with a knee injury, while 22-year-old England winger Downing has been sidelined by a groin problem.

Although the Dutchman is yet to return to full training, he is rated 70-30 for the weekend, while Downing has a good chance of being available.

There is also better news of summer signing Julio Arca. The 25-year-old Argentinian broke a bone in his foot during the opening day defeat at Reading, but could return to action for the reserves at Blackburn next Monday.