MIDDLESBROUGH manager Steve McClaren has decided against extending John Eustace's loan from Coventry, writes Clive Hetherington.

The midfielder returned to Highfield Road yesterday after his month-long spell with Boro ran out.

Eustace was restricted to only three minutes of first-team action when he came on as a late substitute for Malcolm Christie in Saturday's 1-1 draw at Liverpool.

With George Boateng back after a cartilage operation and the squad boosted by the signings of strikers Christie and Michael Ricketts, defender Chris Riggott and Brazilian midfielder Doriva, McClaren felt there was no need to hold on to Eustace.

The Boro boss said: "John has done well in his time here, but since he arrived we have been able to bring in players to strengthen the squad and the midfield area.

"That's why we have allowed him to return to Coventry.''

Meanwhile, Juninho continues to make progress in training after his six-month lay-off recovering from knee surgery to repair a torn anterior cruciate ligament.

Boro first-team coach Steve Harrison said yesterday: "He has trained for the last two days and the news is very encouraging.

"He has stood up to all the work we have done, he's looking good, and we'll just keep our fingers crossed that there's no reaction.''

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