Neil Warnock provides Paddy McNair injury update and is quizzed on Britt Assombalonga ahead of Middlesbrough's trip to Millwall

The Boro midfielder was forced off with a knee injury during the Teessiders’ 2-0 win over Preston after starting in midfield.

McNair was then included in the Northern Ireland squad for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Italy (Thursday, 25 March) and Bulgaria (Wednesday, 31 March), as well as a friendly against USA (Sunday 28 March).

The 25-year-old could also be fit for this weekend’s trip to Millwall, with Boro looking to keep in touch with the play-off contenders.

When asked if McNair will be fit for the international matches, Warnock told BBC Tees: “We think he will be but it’s one of those things.

"They are important things for Northern Ireland so if he can be available Paddy will want to play.

"We are hoping he will do something today."

Boro striker Britt Assombalonga missed the Preston win with a hamstring issue, and Warnock isn’t sure if he’ll be ready to return this weekend.

“That I don’t know, I’ve not spoken to him this morning,” added Warnock when quizzed on the frontman.

Boro did welcome back striker Ashley Fletcher against Preston as the striker came off the bench following a glute injury.

"We just have to be careful with him,” said Warnock. “I got a bit carried away with him last time.

"To be fair I think the last couple of games Chuba (Akpom) has put a lot of work in and contributed to the goals, so that’s all you can ask of a striker.”

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