Three ruled out as Sheffield Wednesday visit Middlesbrough...

One player might make a comeback for the home team, but three Middlesborough players have been ruled out for

Boxing Day’s visit to Sheffield Wednesday.

When Michael Carrick’s team hosts the Owls tomorrow afternoon, Seny Dieng, Luke Ayling, and Aidan Morris will

still not be available for selection. The former two missed the 3-3 draw against Plymouth Argyle, and the latter has

been out for a while.

As he considers which starting lineup to use at the Riverside, Carrick has stated that this game will come too soon for

Boro supporters, who had hoped that the return of any one of the three would help them prepare for the penultimate

match of 2024.

He clarified, “They won’t be ready for Thursday.” Morris is well and back on the pitch, but it’s one of those injuries

where it can be difficult to kick the ball when you’re recovering. We’re just exercising patience because sometimes it

can go really smoothly and other times it might take a little longer.”

Lukas Engel may possibly make a comeback to the team following his injury-related absence; Carrick added, “Lukas

is back in and around the group.” It’s clear that he’s losing training and game time. It’s wonderful to have him back

after a few months away, as he is now fully trained.

Meanwhile, speaking about the Owls, the Boro boss said, “We’re used to playing tough games. Every game is

challenging in this league… Sheffield Wednesday are on a good run and played particularly well the other day,

especially with ten men. But we’re looking forward to it and want to get back to doing what we’re good at as soon as

possible and trying to win games.

“We have chances to do that if we do the right things. The boys have been playing some good football and have been

looking dangerous. It’s a really good feeling to feel that potential and capability that we can score quickly at any

moment. It’s getting the balance right.”

Wednesday and Boro lock horns at 3pm tomorrow afternoon as the Owls look to go level on points with their play-off

chasing opponents.

Three ruled out as Sheffield Wednesday visit Middlesbrough for Boxing Day battle