Middlesbrough manager Aitor Karanka has admitted that he is fearful defender Damia Abella could face a spell on the sidelines due to the knee injury that he picked up against Cardiff City.

The 32-year-old, who joined Boro from La Liga outfit Osasuna on a free transfer during the summer, was withdrawn midway through the second half of the 1-0 victory in South Wales last night.

"I don't think it's going to be good news about him," Karanka told BBC Sport. "We need to wait for the results of a scan, but it's very bad for me because he's an amazing lad and a good player who is helping us."

Karanka's side are currently eighth in the Championship table.