As expected, Noel Whelan is out of Middlesbrough's F.A Cup semi-final clash with Arsenal at Old Trafford on Sunday, and possibly the rest of the season.

A scan has confirmed the worst as Whelan has torn his hamstring after going off injured in Boro's 2-1 win over Aston Villa.

Steve McClaren now has big problems in attack with doubts also over Alen Boksic and Silizard Nemeth, leaving Dean Windass as the only recognised forward fully fit.

Elsewhere Boro will be without the cup-tied Benito Carbone and the suspended Paul Ince. With the absence of any real attacking quality, McClaren may be forced to chuck Carlos Marinelli back in at the deep end.

The youngster has largely disappointing after a successful spell earlier in the season when he broke into the first team for the first time.