After six months on the sidelines, Middlesbrough midfielder Willo Flood has returned to full training. The 25-year-old Irishman has not played since dislocating his kneecap in an accidental collision with team-mate Matthew Bates during the opening game of the season against Ipswich.

Assistant manager Mark Venus told the club's official website: "Willo trained with us for the first time and that was great to see.

"Personally for him it is great news. That was a horrible injury, but for the squad as a whole, he is a welcome addition.

"Naturally we will have to be careful and we will closely monitor his progress, but he wants to join in with everything and that's a great sign."