On-loan Norwich defender Matthew Bates has returned to Middlesbrough after suffering serious damage to his knee.Bates had to be substituted during the 1-1 draw with Hull and will need an operation to repair the injury.

Canaries boss Glenn Roeder said: "Matty sustained a knee injury in the game on Tuesday night. When we had it scanned early on Wednesday morning we were hoping it would only be minor damage.

"Unfortunately, our worst fears were confirmed that he had sustained more than minor damage and that he would need an operation.

"It's the third time he's needed to have an operation in the last 18 months. As you can imagine, he was really enjoying his time here and was showing what a good signing he was.

"He has been assured that the operation will be a success and he will make another comeback. He gets on tremendously well with the lads and we wish him not only a speedy recovery, but a full recovery as well."

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