Mido explains absence

Middlesbrough striker Mido has revealed his absence from the club’s pre-season trip to Portugal is due to visa problems.

The Egypt international, who missed the major part of last season due to injury, has been prevented from making the trip to the Algarve and will miss the friendly with Celtic.
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"I would like Boro supporters to know why I am not in the team for this evening's game in Portugal against Celtic,” Mido said.

"There have been ongoing problems regarding my visa, which I hope to have sorted shortly.

"It could be that the Portuguese embassy require up to a week to amend this situation, thus preventing my ability to travel to Portugal in the very immediate future."

Meanwhile, teenage midfielder Richie Smallwood has signed his first professional contract with Middlesbrough.

The 17-year-old has signed a three-year deal after impressing with the England Under-18 team.

"It is a wonderful achievement for Richie,” Academy manager Dave Parnaby said. “He is a smashing lad who has worked hard to get to where he is now.

"It's an encouraging start to Richard's career. He is a clever player and has the potential to go far in the game - but the hard work starts now."