Southgate hopeful of Alves debut

Gareth Southgate will be able to give club record signing Afonso Alves his debut in Middlesbrough’s match at Newcastle on Sunday if the Brazilian is given international clearance from the Dutch football federation.

As well as waiting on the former Heerenveen striker, the Boro boss has concerns over the fitness of Jeremie Aliadiere (groin), who played in Tuesday’s 1-0 win over Wigan, and Emanuel Pogatetz (ankle), who missed the midweek match.