AITOR Karanka insists Jonathan Woodgate can still play a big part in Middlesbrough’s season despite the fact the defender is struggling for fitness.

Woodgate has made just one appearance so far in the Capital One Cup first round win at Oldham having missed the majority of pre-season with a number of niggles.

Now, the former Real Madrid centre back has been sidelined with a thigh injury, but Karanka is confident the 34-year-old can still play a big part this campaign.

“He’s now injured,” the head coach revealed. “It’s difficult for me because Woody is the kind of player I would like to have in training always, but it’s not possible because he is injured.

“I hope he can train with us as soon as possible.

“He still has a part to play this season. He is a very good player and when he’s fit he is an important player for us.”

Boro welcome Fulham to the Riverside Stadium on Saturday after Tuesday night’s disappointing home draw with Blackpool.

Karanka has a full squad to pick from apart from Woodgate and Damia Abella, but it is touch and go whether Adam Clayton has fully recovered from the illness that forced him off on Tuesday.

He said: “Clayton is better. He trained today, but he was bad and I have to think whether he is going to play.

“Everybody is fit other than Damia (Abella) and Woody. Everyone is ready to play on Saturday.”

Albert Adomah and Dean Whitehead are both available after serving their suspensions.