Middlesbrough defender Rhys Williams is returning home to Australia after suffering a knee injury. Williams damaged lateral knee ligaments in Wales' U21 victory over Romania that saw them qualify for the European Championship play-off with England next month.

Williams had broken through into Boro first team picture this season after a number of excellent performances in pre-season.

He told Boro's website: "I've been told I will be out for four months, which is frustrating because it's been such a good start to the season.

"Being involved in the first team has done me the world of good. My contract is up at the end of the season and obviously I'm keen to win a new one."