Hoyte ruled out for clash against Gunners

December 12, 2008

Justin Hoyte, Middlesbrough defender, is likely to miss the clash against his former club, Arsenal on Saturday.

Hoyte was all geared up for facing the Gunners, who he left for joining Boro during August. However, he suffered a knee injury while training and now is in doubt to play the game.

He has joined Gary O’Neil and Mido, who are also on the sidelines and will be missing as they have failed in overcoming their injuries.

Chris Riggott and Robert Huth might make the side, but they aren’t fit then Gareth Southgate is going to be left with fewer options in defense.

Southgate will be only having Andrew Taylor and Captain Emanuel Pogatetz available in his backline, as David Wheater has also been suspended for the game.

However, good news for Boro boss is that Tony McMahon is back in the club after having a successful time at Sheffield Wednesday, where he was on loan. Again, both Matthew Bates and Seb Hines are also fit and might push for getting included against Gunners.

Meanwhile, Arsenal defender, Mikael Sivestre, insisted that his side still has time in their hand to get back strongly in the Championship race.

According to him, this is the point where Chelsea made a comeback in the previous season and almost went on to win the Premier League and Champions League.

To his defense, Gunners have got the potential to make a comeback. At the same time, the gap between the top four sides is still under manageable proportions. If things go accordingly, it will be yet another close finish for the title in the league.

Share and Enjoy: