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By: Johnny Edward.
English Championship side, Middlesbrough, began their training camp in Portugal without Chuba Akpom, their top marksman for last season, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
The 27-year-old and Matthew Hoppe are the only players left behind on Teesside
According to Gazette Live, the pair are missing due to injuries.
“There are two notable absentees missing from the traveling group, with Chuba Akpom and Matthew Hoppe both remaining on Teesside, due to treatment on minor injuries,” the daily reported.
Akpom had a spectacular campaign last season, netting 28 goals in 40 appearances — a feat that saw him named the Championship Player of The Season.
His absence has further fuelled speculations over his future at the club after he was earlier linked with Everton and Crystal Palace.
Akpom is valued at €12m per Transfermarket.
Middlesbrough players were put through their paces during the warm-weather session in Algarve, Portugal.
In heat reaching around 30°, Boro coaches put the players through some vigorous running drills as they use the camp to step up the work on fitness levels ahead of the new season.