Downing set to feature

Stewart Downing is expected to be included in the Middlesbrough squad to face derby rivals Sunderland in the Barclays Premier League after having his transfer request refused.

Julio Arca is available after missing the FA Cup victory over Barrow through suspension, while Mohamed Shawky could also be included following his recovery from illness.

But Gary O’Neil remains a doubt with a hamstring injury and Jeremie Aliadiere is out for between six and eight weeks with ankle ligament damage, while Justin Hoyte is expected to return to full training in a fortnight’s time after undergoing knee surgery.

Provisional squad: Team (from): Turnbull, Jones, McMahon, Bates, Riggott, Pogatetz, Huth, Wheater, Taylor, Digard, Shawky, Arca, Downing, A. Johnson, Tuncay, Alves, Mido, Emnes, Tuncay, Walker.