'I'm not convinced!': Middlesbrough fans flock to social media after key duo are DROPPED for Swansea City clash

Ashley Fletcher misses out for Middlesbrough against Swansea City

In what is Boro’s first game back in Championship action after a three-month hiatus, Woodgate has named a surprising line-up – with attacking duo Britt Assombalonga and Ashley Fletcher left on the bench.

The absence of the duo had supporters talking on social media, while Harold Moukoudi absence was also a source of conversation.

Our Boro reporter Joe Nicholson will be bringing you live coverage from the game - as one of only a handful of journalists allowed access to the fixture. Follow his updates here.

Here’s what fans were saying on social media:

@JonnyBullock1 said: “Not surprised with Gestede starting, holds the ball up and will get us up the pitch when we need it. Disappointed Roberts and Spence ain’t starting mind.”

@MuirLeaStores commented: “I think the bench might win against that team”

@jzkfranc tweeted: “This had better be the most unexpected masterstroke from Woodgate or he’ll deservedly be under pressure. No Roberts, Tav or Fletcher? Wing aside there’s almost zero creativity there.”

@paultino1 added: “I honestly think 3 of our best players are on the bench, but I remain positive we can do this.”

@MatthewBye13 posted: “Oh boy I’m not convinced by the forwards hope for the best!”

@karlbenwatson said: “Bit surprised Britt and Fletch are on the bench but COME ON BORO!!”

@4TheLoveOfBoro asked: “Of all the things wrong about that line-up the fact we don’t have a central defender on the bench worries me most. Where’s Moukoudi?”

@jackeddiemoore tweeted: “Im happy with that. Hopefully bring Roberts on at some point”

@AidyCoyle posted: “Barring 2/3 players that’s literally the worst team he could’ve picked”

@paulmetz added: “I feel as negative as the line up suggests.”

Here’s the full team news:

Middlesbrough XI: Stojanovic, Howson, Shotton, Fry, Friend, Clayton, Wing, McNair, Coulson, Nmecha, Gestede.

Subs: Pears, Spence, Johnson, Saville, Roberts, Tavernier, Morrison, Assombalonga, Fletcher.

Our Boro reporter Joe Nicholson will be bringing you live coverage from the game - as one of only a handful of journalists allowed access to the fixture. Follow his updates here.