MATT Clarke's Middlesbrough frustrations show no sign of easing, with the defender still struggling with the back issue that has sidelined him for the last nine months.

Michael Carrick has praised Clarke for the way he's dealt with what the head coach describes as a "tough road" for the centre-half.

Clarke joined Boro last summer and made just six appearances - all under former boss Chris Wilder - before suffering the injury that has kept him out of action since last October.

The 26-year-old has worked tirelessly to try and get back and was in light training on his own at Rockliffe during the summer in a bid to maintain fitness while Boro and the defender continue their efforts to get to the bottom of the problem.

But as things stand, he remains out of contention.

“He’s at the same stage really," said Carrick.

"He’s working hard trying to get himself back, Clarkey. It’s been a tough road for him so far but he’s dealt with it really well.

"We’re trying to support him as best we can to try and get him back in the mix as soon as we can. It’s been a tricky one with his back, one we’ve had to try different things to work him through, and hopefully we can get him back soon."

Boro's physios and medical team will continue to support Clarke as he attempts to rid himself of the problem and hopefully, in time, resume full training.

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After the weekend double header against Hartlepool United and York City, Boro will continue their preparations for the coming campaign with a trip to Rotherham United on Wednesday night.

Carrick split his squad over the weekend and was pleased to get minutes in the legs of plenty of players.

He said: “Fitness is the biggest take away from the two games and the training game out in Portugal last week. That was the first proper workout in a game situation, so it is what it is. It’s just about getting minutes into the legs.

"You look to get the boys started and up and running again and get the new boys integrated into the squad. We’re not over-analysing it because it is mixed teams. The lads have trained well over the last few weeks and are at a good level. They’re making new connections with the new boys and the younger lads as well, some of which did well, so there are plenty of positives to take.

"Everyone has pretty much come through the games, leaving us ready for another good week of training and a couple of games as well."