Schwarzer set for final

Steve McClaren expects Mark Schwarzer to be fit to play in the Uefa Cup final.

Steve McClaren is confident that Mark Schwarzer will be fit to play for Middlesbrough in the Uefa Cup final against Sevilla.

Schwarzer suffered a broken cheekbone in the FA Cup semi-final against West Ham United just over a fortnight ago and was initially a major doubt for Wednesday's game in Eindhoven.

But the Australian keeper is ready to wear a protective mask to ensure he can figure in the biggest game in Boro's history.

"I'm very hopeful Mark will be there for the final, he's a strong lad," said Boro boss McClaren.

"When he got the injury against West Ham in the semi-final we knew it would be touch and go.

"But I should think Mark will make it, which is great news."

The injury occurred after Schwarzer was caught by Dean Ashton and the shot-stopper is still annoyed that the Hammers striker did not make an effort to apologise.

"I have not seen the incident again, but he obviously caught me with his forearm or elbow, whether it was by accident or on purpose, I am not bothered, it happens," said Schwarzer in The Daily Mail.

"The biggest disappointment is I know if I hurt somebody, I would go to them and apologise straight away.

"Someone claims he tried to come on the pitch to see me, but was shooed away. But if I knew I had hurt someone I would tell that person to move out of the way so I can apologise.

"But I walked past him in the corridor and he ignored me. I'm over it and it is not a problem, but it is annoying."