Middlesbrough boss Kim Hellberg has delivered a crucial injury update ahead of his side's Championship play-off semi-final second leg against Southampton, confirming that star midfielder Hayden Hackney will not feature in the decisive clash.

The talented playmaker has been sidelined since March with an injury, leaving fans anxious about his availability for the high-stakes showdown. However, there is a glimmer of hope for Boro supporters. Hellberg revealed that Hackney is making excellent progress and could be ready in time for a potential play-off final at Wembley.

"Hayden is preparing for the final," Hellberg stated. "He will not be ready for this one, but I think he will be ready for the final. He hasn't been close enough to play in the second leg, to be fair. He's on the grass now, and that was a massive step forward in the last few days. He's getting better and better, and in 14 days, he will be ready."

The Swedish manager added that the club has a detailed plan in place to ensure Hackney is match-fit should Middlesbrough advance. "If it comes to it, then we will look to arrange some games to get him ready. You always need to look for a plan leading up to that game, and of course we are prepared for that. We have a schedule mapped out right up to the final."

The play-off tie has been marred by controversy, with the EFL charging Southampton after allegations they spied on Middlesbrough's training session ahead of the first leg. But Hellberg is keeping his focus firmly on the pitch, refusing to be drawn into further discussion about the incident.

"I need to, and we need to try and talk about the game. That's the most important thing now," he insisted. "I answered all those on Saturday, and took my time to do it. Now I want to prepare my team for this game."

With promotion to the Premier League on the line, all eyes will be on Riverside Stadium as Middlesbrough look to overcome the odds and book their place in the final—with or without their star man.