Middlesbrough boss Jonathan Woodgate has confirmed that striker Britt Assombalonga is set for a spell on the sidelines after suffering an ankle injury during their 1-0 victory over Charlton.

The Teesside outfit sealed their second consecutive home win courtesy of George Saville's effort in the first minute, but they were dealt a blow when Assombalonga was forced off following Darren Pratley's challenge in the 64th minute.

Assombalonga is Middlesbrough's top scorer so far this season with six league goals from his 19 appearances, with the Congo international being an important player for Woodgate's side despite struggling with an ankle injury of late.

It now appears as though Assombalonga could now be facing a considerable lay-off as Woodgate confirmed in his post-match press conference that the 27-year-old left the Riverside Stadium on crutches after sustaining a fresh injury in the match.

“He's on crutches so when it rains, it pours. It's thunder and lightning, it's everything,” he told Football League World.

“I think that's a new injury, which is not good.” “I'm not sure how long Britt will be out for but that will be another blow to many, but it happens and it's another opportunity for someone else to come into the team.” This news comes after Boro midfielder Lewis Wing missed out on the Addicks clash after sustaining a knee problem, with the 24-year-old now adding to Woodgate's list of injury concerns at present.

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The Verdict

It seems that Middlesbrough took a risk in fielding Assombalonga against Charlton given his recent injury issues, and this latest development indicates that this decision has clearly backfired with the striker now sidelined.

Assombalonga has perhaps not been as prolific as he would have liked during Boro's disappointing start to the season, but he has still consistently offered a menacing presence in attack for Woodgate's side.

The Middlesbrough boss will be extremely disappointed that this blow has come at a time where his side now have a chance of building a run of form, but it now gives a chance for another player to fill his place.