Middlesbrough FC

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• Manager:Tony Mowbray

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Pogatetz ready to return

08 Nov 2007 - 07:03:01

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Middlesbrough defender Emanuel Pogatetz has declared himself fit and available for Sunday's trip to Bolton Wanderers.

The Austria international has not made an appearance for Boro this season following surgery on both knees during the summer.

But after playing 90 minutes for the club's reserves against Manchester United in midweek, the 24-year-old claims he is ready for a first-team recall should manager Gareth Southgate decide to use him at the weekend.

Boro have picked up just two points from 21 and are only two places above the relegation zone.

"I am happy. It was my first 90 minutes for a long time and I felt really comfortable," he told the Evening Gazette.

"My knees are fine. There is no problem with my fitness and I feel I am there now.

"Maybe I will be on the bench for Bolton and maybe I can travel with the squad.

"I have had three weeks of football and loads of fitness work and I cannot wait to get back.

"It is in the gaffer's hands, but if he wants me, I am ready.

"It is a tough time for the team at the moment - that's why I am pushing to get back and I am ahead of schedule."