Morris Back in Training

Midfielder Expected to Return to Training This Week

Middlesbrough's Aidan Morris is working his way back to fitness after being sidelined since November with a knee injury suffered while on international duty with the US. The summer signing from Columbus Crew had made an impressive start to his Middlesbrough career before the setback, with the team winning only four of the 12 games during his absence.

Morris has begun light training as part of his rehabilitation program and was spotted doing some running work on the Riverside pitch following Middlesbrough's recent FA Cup defeat to Blackburn Rovers. Manager Michael Carrick confirmed that Morris is expected to rejoin full team training next week, though he won't be rushed back into action.

The midfielder could be available for Saturday's match against Portsmouth, but that will depend on a good week of training. His return will be a welcome boost for Middlesbrough, as Morris had excelled in the first third of the season before his extended absence.