Blow for Boro as Malanda's debut has to be delayed

DEFENDER HAD BEEN IN THE STARTING LINE-UP AT DERBY

- By CRAIG JOHNS

DESPITE Middlesbrough's best efforts, they were unable to field Adilson Malanda for his debut at Derby County on New Year's Day after failing to get international clearance in time for the defender.

In the midst of an injury crisis where they have no fit defenders, Boro were desperately hoping the Frenchman would receive the clearance in time in order to play at Pride Park.

Kim Hellberg admitted after the 1-0 loss that the centre-back had been in the starting line up until 90 minutes before kickoff, when alternative plans had to be made. So why didn't Boro get international clearance in time?