GORDON STRACHAN says he might consider issuing all his players with face masks it if makes them play as well as brave Emanuel Pogatetz!

The indestructible defender was back with the specially-designed mask last weekend after missing just one game with a broken cheek.

And even after receiving a cut above his eyebrow the Austrian kept on going, returning to the field after being bandaged up by Boro's medical staff.

"If it makes you play like that I think we should all be playing in masks!" remarked Strachan, who has clearly been delighted with the 26-year-old's attitude.

"He has strength that not many people can match. He is as mentally and physically strong as I've seen. His bravery and commitment is second to none.

"It makes me nervous watching him! I was saying to my assistant, Garry Pendrey, the other day that I couldn't do what Poggy does.

"In training, he goes rushing at the ball with a broken cheekbone and five stitches in his head.

"I admire his bravery and the respect he displays for his team-mates."

Strachan confirmed that Pogatetz is to retain the position of club captain, although midfielder Gary O'Neil will wear the skipper's armband.

"Poggy is still the club captain but Gary is the captain on the field," he said. "Some people are better organisers off the pitch, some are better on the pitch, but as a midfielder, Gary is in the ideal position to be captain.

"The captain has to be someone who plays regularly, who doesn't get injured very often, who knows the game, and who communicates well with team-mates."

ORDER ALL YOUR BORO GIFTS ON TIME FOR CHRISTMAS