Middlesbrough manager Gareth Southgate will soon have Jeremie Aliadiere back in action but he will not rush him.

Aliadiere damaged ankle ligaments while playing against Barrow in the FA Cup.

Boro are currently enduring a horrific run of form in the Premier League and are firmly entrenched in the relegation zone.

The Teessiders have managed just four goals in the seven games Aliadiere has missed, and Southgate is hoping he could return for their league clash with Liverpool at the end of the month.

"Jeremie is making steady progress," said Southgate.

"He will not be ready for this weekend and the cup replay may come a little early, but he could be back in the squad against Liverpool.

"It will be good to have him back with us because his pace gives us options. But we won't be rushing him."