Middlesbrough handed David Strelec bonus but now face Slovakia wait

Middlesbrough forward David Strelec made his first Championship start of the season during a 0-0 draw against Watford at Vicarage Road after overcoming injury. Manager Hellberg praised the Slovakian striker's performance, noting he created key chances before being substituted for Kyle Joseph in the 66th minute due to fatigue and cramping.

Strelec now heads to international duty with Slovakia for Nations League fixtures against the Faroe Islands and Kazakhstan. Hellberg acknowledged that while international match minutes could benefit Middlesbrough, avoiding another injury remains a significant concern after Strelec returned injured from his previous call-up.