THE first Austrian ever to play for Boro, Emanuel is a strong left-sided defender who was signed from Bayer Leverkusen after impressing while playing for AK Graz against Boro in the 2004-05 UEFA Cup. Because of a suspension imposed by the Russian FA his debut with Boro was delayed. The Austrian international had been sent-off in his final game when on loan with Spartak Moscow and he was given a 24-week ban, which seemed harsh and one which was reduced to eight weeks on appeal. He eventually made his debut on Sunday August 28 2005, a half-time replacement for Franck Queudrue in a 3-0 home defeat inflicted by Charlton Athletic. Pogatetz played at lef-back, centre-back and on the left of midfield during his first season at the Riverside but a serious facial injury sustained in a UEFA Cup match in Basel ended his campaign early. Currently enjoying an extended run in the side as centre-back after forging a successful partnership with Jonathan Woodgate. |
