Premiership: Southgate fit to face Villa

Middlesbrough defender Gareth Southgate will be fit to face former club Aston Villa on Saturday after shaking off a knock.

The 31-year-old, who can expect a hostile welcome at Villa Park after his protracted £6.5million move to Teesside during the summer, returned from England duty at the weekend with a slight knee problem.

But he trained today and is expected to be able to take his place in Steve McClaren’s side as they attempt to build on their thumping 5-1 home win over Derby last time out.

He is likely to be joined by star striker Alen Boksic, who is fighting fit after withdrawing from the Croatia squad ahead of their gruelling trip to South Korea for two friendly games.