Middlesbrough defender David Wheater could be fit for the opening game of the new season as he steps up his recovery from knee surgery.

The 22-year-old had an operation to repair his damaged cartilage days after the end of the last campaign, and is expected back for light training ahead of his team-mates with Sheffield United's opening day trip to the Riverside Stadium firmly in his sights.

Manager Gareth Southgate said: "David was struggling with his knee and played through the pain barrier to try and help the team.

"We knew he would need an operation, but he postponed it until after the last game because he wanted to do all he could to help the club.

"It was typical of his attitude - and exactly why I'm so delighted that he has publicly re-affirmed his commitment to stay with the club and play a big part in our promotion bid this season.

"He won't be able to train with the team initially, but we hope to have him back playing before too long so that he can be ready to play Sheffield United on the season's opening day."