Middlesbrough are on the south-coast this weekend with a visit to AFC Bournemouth and while desperate for a change in fortunes.
Defender Fabio (knee) and striker Rudy Gestede (foot) were expected to be available following slight knocks but goalkeeper Victor Valdes (rib) and midfielder Grant Leadbitter (hamstring) are both ruled out.
On loan defender Calum Chambers could though return after being on the sidelines with a foot injury since February.
“Of course it is a big week and of course it’s a massive game,” Boro head coach Steve Agnew told BBC Sport. “But you have to enjoy it and that’s the only way I know, that’s what the players and staff know.
“They are all relishing the game on Saturday. You do need wins and that’s what we have missed, and that’s what we need from now on in,” he added. “Yes, you need to be hard to beat and continue to be difficult to beat, but equally you need a goal to take the three points we need.”
The Cherries must check on midfielder Dan Gosling (calf) but on loan Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere is out for the remainder of the season due to a fractured leg.
Lewis Cook may therefore return to their starting eleven.
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