The Rangers midfielder arrived on deadline day for the Championship promotion chasers, but has yet to play for Boro.

Barron was expected to contribute, but has been reduced to a watching brief.

Hellberg said the lack of game time reflects problems clubs have faced bringing new players into their squads.

He added that opportunities may now emerge for Barron.

Boss Kim Hellberg said: “I think you can see a lot of teams now where players who they signed in the summer are starting to come into the teams a bit more now.

“It was very difficult at the start of the season, when you are playing all the time, to get new signings ready.

“You had players who were maybe coming in after not really having a pre-season, so I think a lot of teams have struggled with getting new players into their squad and up to speed.

“He [Barron] was working very well during the break and it is good to have him in the squad now. He is a very good player.”

Barron joined Middlesbrough from Rangers but has not featured since his move. Hellberg’s comments suggest the Scotland international could now be considered for selection, after working hard during the international break.