McDonald poser for Strachan

Published: 08 Feb 2010 - 15:17:48

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Middlesbrough boss Gordon Strachan will make a late decision on whether or not to include new signing Scott McDonald in his side to face Barnsley on Tuesday night.The Australian missed Saturday's 1-1 draw at Ipswich after suffering a reaction to his return to training following hernia surgery, and he will be assessed over the next 24 hours.Midfielder Julio Arca is in a similar position after also sitting out at Portman Road with a toe problem.Injuries continue to limit Strachan's options with Chris Riggott and Emanuel Pogatetz just back into light training after hamstring problems, while Jeremie Aliadiere is continuing his recovery from ankle surgery.Utility man Rhys Williams is set to be sidelined for several weeks yet with a pelvic injury, while Seb Hines (ankle and knee ligament) and Matthew Bates (cruciate ligament) remain on the long-term casualty list.