Former Celtic captain Stephen McManus has been ruled out of action for four months after undergoing ankle surgery with a London specialist.
The centre-half is unlikely to play again until March after being substitued during Tony Mowbray’s second match in charge of ‘Boro- a 2-1 home win over Crystal Palace.
Two ankle bones were drilled and fused while the ligament was secured during the operation.
Mowbray confirmed: “It’s obviously a big blow for Stephen and also for the team because he is a strong experienced defender and also a leader.
“We’re going to miss him and wish him all the best with his rehab.”
McManus spent the second half of last season on loan to ‘Boro before completing a £1.5m move to the Teeside club during the close season.
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