Reports from the Football Insider have revealed that Middlesbrough striker Rudy Gestede is facing up to three months out with a leg injury.

The injury was reportedly sustained in Boro’s 0-0 draw against Preston North End just before the international break and now requires surgery to fix.

The 28-year-old, who was a strong transfer target for Leeds following their sale of Chris Wood, only moved to the Riverside in January from Aston Villa but has struggled for goals with just three in 25 for the club.

Despite United’s interest over the summer, Garry Monk was keen on keeping the striker at the club but will now have to use options elsewhere in the squad for Middlesbrough’s return to action away from home against Bolton.

The Verdict

Here at FLW, many of us couldn’t understand why Leeds were so keen on signing Gestede, and why Monk was so keen to keep him.

Yes, he is a decent striker at Championship level but he’s nothing too special.

The only reason Monk will seriously miss the striker is that his injury is so soon after the transfer deadline and he has no chance of bringing in a replacement.

The likes of Assombalonga will be able to carry the expectations on his shoulders in Gestede’s absence.

What do you think Boro fans? How much are you really going to miss Rudy Gestede? Let us know in the comments down below!