Defender In Race Against Time

Last updated : 05 December 2008 By Sam
The Boro defender picked up a shoulder injury during last weekend's derby match against Newcastle United but he is hoping to have recovered in time for the trip to the KC Stadium on Saturday.

"Manny took a bang on his shoulder," Boro coach Colin Cooper has said.

"But he's a tough fella and he is quite positive about his chances.

"We have had it looked at and the great thing is there is no fracture.

"Manny is desperate to play and we are desperate for him to play because he makes a difference for us.

"You miss any player of his quality, so we will keep our fingers crossed but it was a very nasty bang."