Tommy Smith says he is desperate to get back playing as he gave an update on his current status ahead of the 14-month anniversary of his injury.

The Middlesbrough defender was a mainstay in Michael Carrick’s Boro side for his first season at the club and, with his experience and tactical nous, became an important player as Boro reached the play-offs.

However, after suffering what looked like a nasty ankle injury during a friendly with Real Betis in the summer of 2023, Smith was only just finding his feet last season when he suffered an Achilles injury which has kept him sidelined since. Still unable to fully train, Smith continues to work hard day-to-day at Rockliffe as he goes through his rehab programme. Perhaps with an eye on after his playing career, the 32-year-old has also done a lot of media and punditry work this season, capitalising on Sky Sports’ new EFL broadcast deal.

READ MORE: Dream Middlesbrough January transfer window would be an unusual one for Michael Carrick

READ MORE: Middlesbrough monitoring Ben Doak developments as Crystal Palace ready to table second bid

This weekend, the defender was back at Stoke City to take on Mark Robins’ first game in charge of his former club - making an appearance as a co-commentator for BBC Radio Stoke. Asked ahead of the goalless draw with Plymouth Argyle how he’s getting on, Smith updated: “I’m doing well. I’m really enjoying my time at Middlesbrough - or at least I was.

“I had a really bad injury about 14 months ago. I ruptured my Achilles. It was a really tough one to take - really difficult - because I was playing regularly, I felt like I was in really good form and enjoying my football. Then the injury happens.It’s set me back.

“I’m 32 years of age now, so I’m desperate to get back on the grass. I want to obviously maximise as much playing time as possible. I’ve still got a few little issues I need to get past before I can get back on the grass.

“But I am still enjoying my time there. We’ve got a good group of players and staff, it’s a great club to be at - similar to Stoke in that respect. Passionate supporters who are desperate for their club to do well. I’m looking forward to the rest of the season.”

In Smith’s absence, Boro signed Luke Ayling on loan from Leeds United 12 months ago and made that deal a permanent one in the summer after a successful six-month stint. On top of that, with Ayling currently out injured, Anfernee Dijksteel has also enjoyed somewhat of a career rejuvenation on Teesside, having previously struggled for game-time during Smith’s period of dominance over the right-back role.

Smith was registered in Boro's 25-man EFL squad back in the summer, suggesting there were hopes that he would be back from his injury by now. Knowing Alex Bangura wouldn't be back from his Achilles injury by this stage, he wasn't included in the squad, with Boro able to make changes this month. However, given the serious nature of Smith's injury, Carrick has always insisted that there be no timeframe pressure on his return.