Middlesbrough rocked by injury crisis ahead of Elland Road clash with Leeds United

Middlesbrough head coach Jonathan Woodgate has revealed he will be without seven first team players against Leeds United this weekend with a further two doubtful.

The Teessiders make the trip to Elland Road on Saturday afternoon in the Championship and will have a depleted squad in LS11.

Woodgate has revealed that following a hectic week of action - which has seen his side draw with Hull City and defeat Barnsley - his squad has been left with an injury pile up as a quick turnaround looms with three games in seven days.

Middlesbrough have endured a difficult campaign so far after picking up just 17 points from 18 outings which sees them sit just outside the relegation places.

Boro will be without goalkeeper Darren Randolph once again while striker Britt Assombalonga is also major doubt for the game.

Asked about his injuries ahead of this weekend's fixture at Elland Road, he said: "Have you got a long bit of paper?"

Woodgate added: “It can be difficult with three games in a week, especially with the squad we have got.

“But when your backs are to the wall, that’s when you come out fighting, and I know my players will give me everything they’ve got.

“We know Rudy [Gestede], Marcus [Browne] and Ryan [Shotton] are out, and Darren Randolph will be out as well.

“Anfernee Dijksteel is out, he needs a knee operation and will be out for four weeks.

“Britt [Assombalonga] is 50/50 with an ankle injury, and won’t train today so I’ll have to see how he is. Paddy McNair is doubtful.

“George Saville is back from suspension which is a plus, but Marvin Johnson has another two games.”