Keane reshuffles defence

Sunderland boss Roy Keane was again forced into a defensive reshuffle as his side attempted to secure their Premier League status against Middlesbrough.

With Phil Bardsley due to undergo surgery on a knee problem and Jonny Evans missing once again with a hamstring strain, Keane also dispensed with the services of Paul McShane after last weekend’s derby defeat at Newcastle. Kieran Richardson and Michael Chopra were drafted in as Daryl Murphy also made way.

Boro manager Gareth Southgate was also forced into changes, with goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer and striker Jeremie Aliadiere out through injury. Brad Jones took over from Ross Turnbull, who had replaced the Australian last week, and Lee Cattermole came in for Frenchman Aliadiere.

Sunderland: Gordon, Whitehead, Nosworthy, Higginbotham, Collins, Edwards, Reid, Miller, Richardson, Chopra, Jones.

Subs: Fulop, Harte, Murphy, Leadbitter, Prica.

Middlesbrough: Jones, Young, Wheater, Pogatetz, Taylor, Cattermole, Boateng, Arca, Downing, Alves, Sanli.

Subs: Turnbull, Rochemback, Shawky, Johnson, Grounds.

Referee: Steve Bennett (Kent)