McGree Boosts Boro Hopes as Bangura Faces Setback
Middlesbrough are grappling with injury woes as Riley McGree shows signs of recovery, while Alex Bangura faces a four-week layoff due to a hamstring strain.
Middlesbrough are facing significant injury challenges as the new season approaches, particularly concerning key players Riley McGree and Alex Bangura.
While there is cautious optimism surrounding McGree's recovery, Bangura's situation appears more serious and could impact the team’s squad in the early fixtures.
Bangura sustained a hamstring strain during a pre-season friendly against Bradford City. Initially, there were fears he might have re-injured his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). However, subsequent scans revealed a grade two hamstring strain, which is expected to keep him sidelined for approximately four weeks.
Middlesbrough manager Rob Edwards expressed a mix of disappointment and relief regarding Bangura’s injury, stating, "It's a shame, but do you know what, with the way he felt afterwards, that's a positive result, to be honest. It's a real shame for him because he was making great strides after being out for so long. But it's not a really serious one at least."
In contrast, McGree's recovery appears more favourable. The Australian midfielder experienced muscular tightness that led to his early departure from the match against Bradford and subsequently missed the friendly against Rangers.
Edwards remains hopeful about McGree’s chances of returning to action soon, remarking, "Riles tried to train [on Friday], but just felt a little bit again. So, we just thought, 'No, we're not going to risk that.'"
- Van den Berg's Future Uncertain as Boro Face Transfer Interest from Feyenoord
- Boro Face Injury Crisis Ahead of Swansea Opener
Compounding the injury concerns, midfielder Hayden Hackney was also absent for the match against Rangers, having missed out as a precaution following a knee issue encountered during training. Additionally, defenders George Edmundson and Finn Azaz are both doubtful for the season's commencement, while goalkeeper Seny Dieng is still in recovery mode following Achilles surgery.
