Arca's return to Argentina suggests his injury could be serious

Middlesbrough midfielder Julio Arca has flown home to Argentina to seek expert opinion on his ankle problem.

Arca, who has made 55 appearances for Boro, was injured in a pre-season game against Hibernian and is yet to make a senior appearance this season.

Boro hoped the 27-year-old would play a part in Saturday's defeat at West Brom but he suffered a setback.

He has travelled to South America to consult the specialist who treated his medial knee ligament injury last year.

Defender Rhys Williams, meanwhile, has returned to Australia for treatment after injuring lateral knee ligaments while playing for Wales Under-21s against Romania.

"I've been told I will be out for four months, which is frustrating because it's been such a good start to the season," said the 20-year-old, who has broken into the first team picture this season.