Middlesbrough manager Tony Pulis has recently spoke out about his dissatisfaction over their clash against Sheffield Wednesday being moved to a Friday evening just days after the international break.
With 10 players arriving back at the club only yesterday, it only gives Middlesbrough one full day of training ahead of the game at Hillsborough.
Pulis addressed the media in his press conference on Thursday morning and hinted that three first-team players could be out of contention due to the international commitments over the past week and a half.
“There’s decisions to be made in terms of what team I select for tomorrow, and a lot of that will be determined by how they train today. I’ll be speaking closely to the doctor and the medical staff too” he said.
“The Savilles of this world have played two games, along with McNair. Besic only played in the one game, but Braithwaite was involved in two games and also did quite a bit of travelling. It’s just about seeing how they are in training, and then taking a view from there.”
Pulis referred to first-team trio George Saville, Muhamed Besic and Martin Braithwaite, as well as Paddy McNair, who has found playing time limited so far this campaign. These four have played multiple games with their countries in the UEFA Nations League, and a return to action in the Championship could come too soon for those mentioned.
Instead Middlesbrough could give a start to youngster Lewis Wing, who impressed in the opening few games of the season, and the Boro boss was keen to praise the 23-year old this week.
“I’m delighted with Lewis. He’s come on a bomb since going out on loan. The lad has come on a bomb” he said.
