Rochemback ready for Boro action

Brazilian midfielder Fabio Rochemback returns to the Middlesbrough squad for Sunday’s Barclays Premiership trip to Wigan.

The 23-year was ineligible for last night’s 2-0 UEFA Cup victory over Skoda Xanthi, but is expected to return at the JJB Stadium.

However, manager Steve McClaren will still be without Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink (thigh), Gaizka Mendieta (calf), Szilard Nemeth (ankle), Tony McMahon (shoulder) and Chris Riggott, Stuart Parnaby and Stewart Downing (all knee).

PROVISIONAL SQUAD: Schwarzer, Jones, Abel Xavier, Queudrue, Southgate, Ehiogu, Pogatetz, Wheater, Bates, Boateng, Parlour, Rochemback, Morrison, Doriva, Johnson, Kennedy, Viduka, Yakubu, Maccarone, Graham.