Mick McCarthy has reassured Middlesbrough supporters over his plans for Darren Randolph.

The Republic Of Ireland goalkeeper had been out of action after struggling with a thigh injury which he picked up during the last international break, but made a welcome return for Boro's 2-2 draw with Queens Park Rangers on Saturday.

Randolph's inclusion in the Ireland squad was something of a surprise for Middlesbrough supporters who were left worried by the decision for him to feature for his country while missing out for his club, however his starting role between the sticks at Loftus Road certainly reassured fans.

The 32-year-old is unlikely to be fully fit after his lay-off, but McCarthy has said that he plans to take care of the goalkeeper as he continues his recovery from injury.

Speaking at his press conference in Dublin, as quoted by Teeside Live, he said: "Yes, we'll be taking care of him.

[freshpress-poll

"Anybody who has been injured, we discuss it with their medical team as well along with ours, and it's no difference with [Ireland and Boro assistant manager] Robbie [Keane] and the management team as well.

"We'll be making sure we look after him. I'm not bothered if he's training, we just want him playing on Monday."

The verdict

Mick McCarthy's comments regarding Darren Randolph will no doubt be a huge relief for Middlesbrough fans.

Despite starting the clash with QPR on Saturday, it's highly unlikely that the 32-year-old is fully over his thigh injury, meaning that both club and country need to be careful not to push him too hard as he continues his recovery.

The fact that he started at Loftus Road is a big statement about his fitness, so as long as Randolph isn't over-exerted during his time away with Ireland I'm sure the Middlesbrough camp will be happy enough.

However, if he was to suffer a setback during his time away then the Teessiders will certainly have something to say about it.