MIDDLESBROUGH have confirmed that former Blackburn Rovers defender Alex Baptiste suffered a double fracture of his leg on his debut for the club.

Baptiste, who spent last season on loan at Rovers, was stretchered off 22 minutes into Boro's 1-0 win at York City on Saturday.

A club spokesperson said: "Summer signing Alex Baptiste has begun his recovery and rehabilitation after suffering a double fracture of his leg. 

"The former Bolton and Blackpool defender, who joined the club at the start of last week, suffered the injury just 22 minutes into his Boro debut at York City on Saturday. 

"Baptiste underwent a successful operation over the weekend, and is now on the road to recovery."

Rovers send wishes of support to Baptiste - see tomorrow's Lancashire Telegraph.