Season over for Pogatetz

Middlesbrough defender Emanuel Pogatetz has been warned against returning to full training for three months for fear of risking his eyesight.

Pogatetz broke his nose and cheekbone in an accidental clash of heads with Basle's Mladen Petric during the first leg of Boro's UEFA Cup quarter-final.

"It is anticipated he will make a full recovery and be back with his team-mates for pre-season training," said Boro's head physio Grant Downie.

"The only disappointing thing for Manny is he won't be able to play football, and he was desperate to get back involved.

"But another blow to his face would risk severe trauma and a potentially eyesight-threatening injury."

To add to his woes, Pogatetz travels to Munich on April 24 for surgery to cure a hernia problem.

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