Pogatetz joined Boro from Bayer Leverkusen for �1.8m in June 2005

Middlesbrough captain Emanuel Pogatetz has assured supporters that the players were hurting following Saturday's 3-1 defeat by Bolton Wanderers.

The loss ended Boro's run of five games unbeaten, and Pogatetz is aware the impetus is now on the team ahead of the derby with Newcastle on Saturday.

"It wasn't a good performance and it was disappointing," he told BBC Tees.

"The expectation will be high for Saturday because everybody expects a reaction from us. This was a lesson."

Meanwhile, Pogatetz defended team-mate Afonso Alves after the Brazilian striker endured another difficult afternoon in front of goal.

The 25-year-old defender has experienced the former Heerenveen forward in training and is confident that with the support of the fans Alves can return to form.

"We all know he's a very good player but the goals just aren't going in at the moment," he said.

"He wasn't at his best, but neither was anyone else, so we can't blame it all on Afonso.

"He tried hard, he has enough quality to score goals for us very soon, and if he scores next Saturday then everyone will be happy."

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