The Turkey international picked up a slight tear to his medial ligament while on World Cup qualifying duty last week, lasting just 13 minutes of the encounter with Belgium having netted in their previous match with Armenia.

There had been reports that Tuncay could be sidelined for four months, but he is being lined up for a return against Manchester City on 28th October.

other lads

Boro manager Gareth Southgate told the club's official website: "It's a shame for Tuncay.

"However, we've got strength in depth in that area now and it gives opportunities to the other lads."

Tuncay had started Boro's opening three Barclays Premier League matches of the season and scored the winner at home to Stoke City at the end of last month.

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