Middlesbrough have been received an injury boost ahead of their return to action after the international break next weekend. 

Midfielder Paddy McNair was forced off in Northern Ireland's recent Euro qualifier against Slovakia through injury, which would have had Boro supporters fearing the worst for the 25-year-old.

But Teesside Live have revealed that McNair was only suffering from cramp, which forced him to withdraw during extra time for Northern Ireland.

Northern Ireland went on to taste defeat in their play-off match, which means they've missed out on qualification to the major tournament next summer.

McNair has been a key player for Middlesbrough in the 2020/21 season so far, with the former Manchester United man making 12 appearances in all competitions for Neil Warnock's side.

Boro have started this year's campaign strongly under Warnock's management as well, as they currently sit seventh in the second-tier standings, and just four points adrift of league-leaders Reading after their opening 11 matches of the season.

McNair and his Middlesbrough team-mates are set to return to action on Saturday 21st November, as they prepare to take on promotion-chasing rivals Norwich City, in what is certain to be a tricky test for Boro at Carrow Road.

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The Verdict: 

This is a promising update on McNair's fitness.

He's been a crucial player in Neil Warnock's side this season in the Championship, and it's good to hear that it was only cramp that forced him off for Northern Ireland recently.

I expect him to start against Norwich City in their next match, and Warnock will know that his side will have to be at their best to come away with something to show for their efforts.

McNair's fitness update is certainly a boost heading into the game though.