Big weekend clash for Boro

Third meets second in a major clash between Championship big-hitters Cardiff City and Middlesbrough this weekend.

The visitors have concerns over on loan Chelsea midfielder Josh McEachran after limping out of the midweek England Under-21 friendly against Northern Ireland with an ankle injury.

There are also current doubts regarding centre-back Jonathan Woodgate and midfielder Kevin Thomson, who are both carrying calf injuries.

Skipper Rhys Williams (ankle ligaments), Mustapha Carayol (knee) and Curtis Main (knee) remain long-term casualties.

"We've been there for the last two seasons and won but Cardiff have won all eight home games, so it's going to be very tough," manager Tony Mowbray told Boro's official website.

"At this moment Cardiff are up there with anyone else if you're going to pick a favourite to get out of this league," he added. "They've got a strong squad and some very talented individual players."

One of those, Welsh international Craig Bellamy, could return for the hosts after missing their last four games.

Otherwise, Kevin McNaughton has a thigh strain and may be replaced by Matt Connolly.

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