Middlesbrough FC defender Michael Reiziger is to have an operation on his shoulder and will be out of action for at least six weeks.

European blow
The 31-year-old former Dutch international is almost certain to miss the Premiership club’s UEFA Cup first-round tie, which will take place over two legs on 16 and 30 September. Middlesbrough qualified for the competition after winning the English League Cup last season.

McClaren dismayed
"Michael will be out for at least six weeks and that's a blow for us," Middlesbrough manager Steve McClaren told the club's official website. Reiziger, who joined the club last month after leaving FC Barcelona, first injured his shoulder in a pre-season friendly against FC Hansa Rostock but the right-back was able to play in the 5-3 league defeat by Arsenal FC last Sunday.