Middlesbrough boss Hellberg reveals injury boost and discusses Whittaker’s situation

Kim Hellberg admitted it is “always tough” to lose players he has worked with after Morgan Whittaker was left out of Middlesbrough’s squad for their 1-1 draw with Burnley amid reports of a move to Colorado Rapids.

Whittaker was absent from the Boro squad at Turf Moor, where Aidan Morris’ goal secured a point for Hellberg’s side.

The Middlesbrough boss admitted he was unsure of the latest developments surrounding Whittaker’s potential departure, but revealed he expected to receive more information in the coming hours.

“I have just been focused on the game, but obviously he [Whittaker] is not here,” Hellberg said.

“I don’t know what has happened in the last few hours with it all, I will wait to find out.

“Things go very quickly in this business, but I am sure I will be told what has happened with it. Then everyone will get all the information tomorrow.

“Everyone knows Morgan is a very good footballer, I like him a lot. Good player, good person. That’s football. It’s always tough when you lose players you work with.”

Hellberg was also able to provide a positive update on Myles Peart-Harris, who missed the trip to Burnley after picking up a knock during Saturday’s home win over West Brom.

“It’s just a small thing from the last game,” Hellberg said.

“He [Peart-Harris] got a hit, but hopefully he will be back for Saturday. Otherwise, it will be next week.”