Huth backed to succeed
29 May 2007 - 08:39:51
Middlesbrough manager Gareth Southgate has backed Robert Huth to enjoy an injury-free 2007-08 campaign after the German endured a disappointing first season on Teesside.
The 22-year-old started only nine games for Boro following his £6million move from Chelsea last August after having problems with his ankle.
Huth has now had a successful operation on the injury and Southgate is confident the defender's problems are finally over.
He said: "It was very important Robert had his surgery when he did.
"We could have carried on going as we were but the right thing to do is to get the operation done properly and to give him a clean bill of health.
"We might have to wait until August for him to be fit but he will only miss a couple of league games for us. Had we waited until the end of pre-season to see if it was OK and he had broken down we would have been without him for a big part of next season."
Southgate has also rubbished reports linking Chris Riggott with a move this summer, adding: "We need that competition for places back there, that's vital.
"From Chris' point of view he has had a frustrating season injury-wise.
"I want him to come back next season and get himself fit. I want him to hang onto the shirt after getting into the team.
"Manny (Pogatetz) was in a similar position and he kept his spot. It would be great if we could have four centre-backs fit, healthy and in fine form. But it's unlikely and that's why we need a squad.
"Chris is a proven Premiership centre-back. He played in our UEFA Cup run and some of our most important matches."