Middlesbrough Looks to Make Uefa Cup Push in Tie Against Skoda Xanthi

Middlesbrough manager Steve McClaren is focused on building a squad that can compete in the Champions League next season. McClaren believes that the team is making progress in achieving this goal. "We have a long way to go to achieve that but we are gathering a squad together, a nice balanced squad," he said. McClaren's comments come ahead of Middlesbrough's Uefa Cup tie against Skoda Xanthi.

Key Takeaways:

• Middlesbrough manager Steve McClaren prioritizes making the Champions League next season.
• McClaren believes the team is making progress in building a balanced squad.
• The team will be without new signing Fabio Rochemback, who is ineligible due to playing for Sporting Lisbon in the Champions League.
• Jason Kennedy is included in the squad, but several players are ruled out due to injuries, including Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, Gaizka Mendieta, and Stewart Downing.
• Middlesbrough will look to make the most of their Uefa Cup tie against Skoda Xanthi at the Riverside.

Statistics:

• Middlesbrough is currently focused on building a squad capable of competing in the Champions League next season.
• The team finished the Greek league season fourth in their previous encounter with Skoda Xanthi's opponents.
• Emerson, a Brazilian midfielder, plays for Skoda Xanthi and had a previous spell at Middlesbrough.
• Middlesbrough's squad includes young midfielder James Morrison, who is available for selection.

Sources:

• McClaren, quoted in the original text.
• Middlesbrough's roster and injury report, mentioned in the original text.