Middlesbrough manager Jonathan Woodgate has confirmed that George Friend could make his first start of the season against Crewe in the Carabao Cup this evening.

The club captain has been fit to play, but the Boro boss has been easing Friend back into things after a summer building up his fitness. However, he may return for tonight’s match at the Riverside Stadium. Woodgate said:

“George trained again at the weekend, and hopefully he’ll be playing. Let’s see.”

Friend missed the last two months of the 2018/19 season due to a groin problem, and while he did feature in a friendly against Bishop Auckland last month, he hasn’t been considered for selection for competitive games so far this campaign.

The 31-year-old did not feature in the squads for the draw against Luton or the 1-0 defeat to Brentford at the weekend. The defender’s place in the side has been taking up by Hayden Coulson.

The young fullback could even keep his position once Friend returns to full fitness with Woodgate having confirmed that the captain will also play centre-back this season.