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Boro defensive pair in battle for fitness
Middlesbrough, 12:38, November 19, 2008 ,
Skipper Emanuel Pogatetz and defensive partner Chris Riggott are both racing to be fit for Middlesbrough's home clash against Bolton.
Pogatetz has pulled out of Austria's friendly against team-mate Tuncay Sanli's Turkey side in Vienna on Wednesday after straining his medial knee ligaments in Sunday's 1-1 draw against Everton, while Riggott is a big doubt for the Trotters clash after limping off at Goodison Park with a hamstring strain.
If the duo fail to make the grade for the Riverside showdown it would be a massive blow to boss Gareth Southgate as David Wheater would be his only fit central defender as Boro look for a win which will make it six games unbeaten and could take them into the top six.
On Riggott, Southgate said: "Hopefully it's not too serious with Chris because he's been playing really well for us. He took a couple of knocks but we'll know more soon."
Meanwhile Pogatetz is hoping to be passed fit as he looks forward to another physical battle with Gary Megson's side on Saturday.
He told the Northern Echo: "I think to get four points from Villa and Everton away is very good and something to build on in our next two home games.
"There's nothing wrong with a physical game but it was hard work at the back and we stood up to the challenge.
"The home games will be very different - we have to use the ball more.
"But Bolton will play in a similar way to Everton with a lot of long balls. And playing at our stadium we expect to have more of the ball and will be hoping for three points."