Boro pair get reserves run-out

Middlesbrough defenders Robert Huth and Emanuel Pogatetz could make their returns from injury for the reserves against Manchester United tomorrow night.

The 23-year-old Germany international and his Austrian counterpart, 24, are expected to turn out for Steve Agnew’s side as Boro attempt cement their place at the top of the Barclays Premier Reserve League North.

Huth, a £6m signing from Chelsea, has managed only 14 appearances for his new club since making his move from Stamford Bridge in August last year with a series of injuries severely limiting him.

He suffered a broken foot last season and picked up an ankle injury as he stepped up his comeback in August.

Pogatetz, one of the stars of last season, underwent surgery on both knees during the close season, but is now ready to step up his efforts to reclaim his place in Gareth Southgate’s starting line-up.