Middlesbrough forward Marcus Browne was forced off with an injury while representing the U23s side last night, which has drawn an interesting reaction from fans of the North East club. 

Boro's Academy side lost 4-1 to Manchester United U23s at the Riverside yesterday, with Browne limping off after eight minutes.

According to Teesside Live, the 21-year-old pulled up after making a run towards the penalty area and required several minutes of treatment before being substituted.

It is understood that Browne felt a twinge in his hamstring and was taken off by U23s boss Graeme Lee as a precaution.

[freshpress-poll ]

The report claims that his fitness will be further assessed today ahead of Boro's Championship clash with QPR on the weekend.

It is thought Jonathan Woodgate could now be without up to eight first-team players for the trip to Loftus Road on Saturday, so losing Browne is the last thing he needs.

The 21-year-old signed for Boro from West Ham this summer for £250,000 and has made 13 appearances for the Teessiders this season.

Browne has mostly featured as a left-winger for Woodgate's side but is yet to register a goal or an assist and has taken just three shots all season, according to Wyscout.

His injury for the U23s side has drawn an interesting response from many Boro fans, with some angry at the club for risking a first-team player and others sarcastically suggesting it will have little impact.

Read the reaction of fans of the North East club here: