Boro boss Jonathan Woodgate still has several injury concerns especially at the back following Daniel Ayala’s setback at Preston last time out. Our Middlesbrough writer Joe Nicholson has picked the starting XI he would play against Spurs – scroll down and flick through our gallery to see if you agree with his selections:
1. GK: Aynsley Pears
Has kept seven clean sheets in his 12 Championship appearances this season. Photo: George Wood
2. CB: Paddy McNair
Didn't look out of place at the back after coming on for Daniel Ayala at Preston. The Spaniard's injury may require McNair to play centre-back again. Photo: Getty Images
3. CB: Dael Fry
Produced his best performance of the season at Preston. One of Boro's only fit centre-backs. Photo: Getty Images
4. RWB: Djed Spence
Is well suited to the wing-back role where he is given licence to get forward. Photo: FRANK REID