Defensive duo look for Saints recalls

Defenders Michael Svensson and Graeme Le Saux are pushing for recalls to Southampton’s side as manager Paul Sturrock bids for his fourth win in five games at Middlesbrough tomorrow.

Svensson is fit after missing the last two games with a calf injury while Le Saux has fully recovered from the hamstring strain that has sidelined him for the last four weeks.

Latvian striker Marian Pahars is also available after overcoming a groin problem but captain Jason Dodd and midfielder Matthew Oakley are both out for the season with knee injuries.

Team (from): Niemi, Telfer, Lundekvam, M Svensson, Higginbotham, Fernandes, Folly, Delap, Prutton, Phillips, Beattie, Ormerod, A Svensson, Pahars, Hall, Kenton, Crainey, McCann, Smith.