Middlesbrough are visiting Sheffield Wednesday for their pre-Christmas fixture on Saturday afternoon (kick-off 3.00pm).
The Teessiders currently have a five-point gap to make up on their weekend opponents’ city rivals Sheffield United in order to get back into the play-offs.
Former Aston Villa striker Rudy Gestede has come off the bench in their latest three outings and is again in contention for a first start since August.
Midfielders Adam Clayton and Marvin Johnson are similarly challenging for inclusion.
Wednesday have midfielder Sam Hutchinson back in their starting line-up having been out for a couple of months with knee trouble.
But goalkeeper Keiren Westwood [groin] remains unavailable for selection, therefore Joe Wildsmith continues, while defender Morgan Fox is suspended after being sent-off against leaders Wolverhampton Wanderers last week.
Striker Steven Fletcher also hopes to make a comeback over the festive programme.
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