Jonathan Woodgate has provided a fresh injury update ahead of Tuesday night's clash with Wigan Athletic.

The Teessiders have been dealing with a long list of injury problems in recent weeks but the good news is that they look to be easing off.

Ryan Shotton and George Friend have been long-term absentees but could be closing in on a return.

Speaking after the Brentford game, Woodgate confirmed that both players are set to play 90 minutes for the under-23s on Tuesday night as they put the final touches to their recovery from an ankle and hip injury respectively.

That means that, in theory, the pair should be available for Saturday's clash with Luton Town.

There was also good news regarding Daniel Ayala and Anfernee Dijksteel.

Both players have been out of action in recent weeks, with an ankle and knee injury keeping the respective players out of action.

However according to Jonathan Woodgate, the duo are now just 'two to three weeks' from a return.

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The verdict

News of this quadruple injury boost is massive for Middlesbrough.

The Teessiders have struggled for months with more than their fair share of long-term absences, and it's great to finally see some players returning to action.

Jonathan Woodgate's side face a pivotal few fixtures as they look to move away from the Championship drop zone and the returning players will certainly be a big boost.