NIGERIA boss Stephen Keshi runs the risk of upsetting Middlesbrough if Kenneth Omeruo suffers a negative reaction to his groin problem during a must-win Africa Cup of Nations qualifier on Wednesday night.

Omeruo was ruled out of his country’s equally important game against Congo four days ago with the same problem he had picked up in training.

Middlesbrough have asked to be kept informed about his fitness and sources in Africa have claimed that he is in line to face South Africa after coming through training without any ill-effects.

The Super Eagles' manager Keshi is keen to have Omeruo back at the heart of his defence for the final qualifier, which the reigning champions know they must win to be certain of qualification to the finals in Equitorial Guinea early next year.

Keshi has already accepted that Turkey based defender Godfrey Oboabona will be missing, so the availability of the experienced Omeruo – who played at the World Cup during the summer despite his tender years – could prove crucial.

Middlesbrough will be keeping an eye on the qualifier in the hope that Omeruo does not suffer a negative reaction to his slight groin problem being tested with the full strains of a vital international.

Aitor Karanka, the Boro boss, will be keen for the on loan Chelsea defender to come through unscathed because of the injury picked up by Ben Gibson on international duty on Monday night.

Gibson fell awkwardly on his ankle during the England Under-21s’ 3-2 defeat to France and had to be replaced. He is being assessed back on Teesside in the hope he is not missing for any serious length of time.

With Rhys Williams and Jonathan Woodgate still ruled out with long term problems, Karanka must come up with a back four to face Wigan at the DW Stadium on Saturday.

Around 5,000 travelling supporters are expected to cheer Middlesbrough on in Lancashire, where Milos Veljkovic could make his first appearance.

Veljkovic has had to bide his time since his arrival from Spurs on loan but he is in contention to face the Latics after the problems encountered by Omeruo and Gibson during the international break.

Even when Omeruo returned from his last international trip with Nigeria, Karanka opted against pitting him straight in to action at Brighton on October 18. Given the travelling involved in returning from Africa, Karanka is likely to prefer not to start him given the chance this time.

Middlesbrough’ Under-21s lost 1-0 to Sheffield Wednesday on Tuesday afternoon. A late goal from Rata Floro proved the difference even though the Teessiders had their chances.