Boosted by a midweek victory against relegation rivals Sunderland, Middlesbrough are hosting Manchester City at the Riverside on Sunday afternoon (kick-off 2.05pm).
Defender Daniel Ayala could be doubtful due to a twisted ankle while goalkeeper Victor Valdes [ribs] and midfielder Grant Leadbitter [hamstring] may again be sidelined.
However, fellow playmaker Gaston Ramirez returns from suspension after being sent-off at AFC Bournemouth.
“It’s another all or nothing match, but we’re used to that in recent weeks,” head coach Steve Agnew admitted to BBC Sport. “Pep’s [Guardiola] team pass the ball and are very good in possession, with lots of movement. They have talent all over the pitch and can score goals for fun.
“But when we went to the Etihad we came away with a point, and in the FA Cup game we worked hard and had chances on the day.”
The visitors are without goalkeeper Claudio Bravo [calf] and Willy Cabellero was expected to deputise.
Meanwhile, there are also concerns over both forward David Silva [hamstring] and centre-back John Stones [leg], although full-back Bacary Sagna returns following over a month out.
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