Adi Viveash has offered a major Middlesbrough injury update on Aidan Morris, David Strelec and Dael Fry after the defeat to Coventry City
Middlesbrough are bracing for a huge Championship meeting with Derby County as interim boss Adi Viveash confirmed mixed news on Aidan Morris, David Strelec and Dael Fry, with Kim Hellberg’s first game in charge fast approaching at the Riverside.
Strelec and Morris updates bring cautious optimism
On-loan striker David Strelec missed the loss to Coventry City after travelling to London to see a specialist about a painful foot problem that first flared up on international duty. Viveash explained that scans have shown no major damage, describing himself as “hopeful” the forward can recover in time for Saturday’s visit of Derby County if he responds well to increased work in the coming days.
🚨 #Boro injury update:
🦶 David Strelec situation explained after scan on foot issue and trip to London to see specialist
⌛️ Dael Fry waiting game
🇺🇸 Aidan Morris ‘got a whack’ last night but withdrawal precautionary rather than anything to worry abouthttps://t.co/ZFPqbuW6N4— Dominic Shaw (@DomShawEcho) November 26, 2025
Midfielder Aidan Morris was forced off shortly before half-time against Coventry City after taking a heavy knock near the corner flag and struggling to move freely. Viveash admitted the American could have carried on, but felt it was too big a gamble against what he described as the best team in the division, choosing instead to protect the player and turn to the bench as Middlesbrough chased the game.
There was better news regarding experienced defender Matt Targett, who returned from a calf issue to play longer than planned. Initially earmarked for around 30 minutes, the Newcastle loanee came on earlier than expected and operated on the left of a back three, with Viveash praising his left foot quality and influence as Middlesbrough pushed higher and forced Coventry City’s wide players deeper.
Fry concern remains as Hellberg era begins
The outlook is less positive for centre-back Dael Fry, whose ongoing issue kept him out once again on Tuesday night. Viveash confirmed that the homegrown defender remains a “massive miss” and admitted there is still no clear timescale on his return as club medical staff, physios and doctors continue to monitor his progress and provide day-by-day updates to the football department at Middlesbrough.
Adi Viveash, you have nothing to apologise for.
Thank you for stepping up. #Boro | #UTB pic.twitter.com/cVd3ea6PLf
— Boropolis (@Boropolis) November 25, 2025
New head coach Kim Hellberg, appointed last week to succeed Rob Edwards, will therefore start his tenure with at least one major selection doubt at the heart of his defence. Hellberg inherits a squad that has been stretched by injuries during a demanding run of fixtures, although there were welcome returns to the matchday group for Sontje Hansen and Sverre Nypan, with Hansen producing one of his most promising cameos since arriving on Teesside.
With Derby County arriving under head coach John Eustace, who guided the Rams to Championship survival last season, the availability of key names will be central to how Hellberg sets up his side. The aim now for Middlesbrough is to nurse Strelec and Morris through the next 48 hours, gain further clarity on Fry and give their new boss the strongest possible hand for a high-stakes first outing at the Riverside.
