Mowbray rues Bailey loss

Boss Tony Mowbray has admitted the loss of midfielder Nicky Bailey has upset Middlesbrough's balance.

The 27-year-old's absence since he suffered medial ligament damage in the 1-1 npower Championship draw with Peterborough on New Year's Eve has proved hugely costly with the Teessiders having lost each of their three league games since.

Mowbray told the Evening Gazette: "I think Bailey is a loss. I couldn't stand here and say Bailey hasn't been a loss and yet you have got to give respect to the players who have played.

"I would say it [the run of defeats] is more about the balance of the team. Without Nicky, that hasn't been quite right."

Meanwhile, Mowbray is hoping to avoid a final-day dash for January signings.

He added: "We are not aiming to do things on the 31st. We want to get it done as soon as we can. Let's wait and see what the window brings. There are enough things going on in the background, a few conversations being had."