The two sides were both in FA Cup action earlier in the week, with Boro securing a famous win over Spurs to progress to this evening's quarter-final draw, while the Hatters lost a 3-2 thriller to Champions League holders Chelsea.
Back in the league, Middlesbrough are just two points off the play-off places, while their opponents are sitting in sixth place. The result of the game, therefore, could go a long way in deciding whether either of the two sides secures a top six finish by the end of the season.
Speaking after the shock victory over Spurs, Boro boss Chris Wilder said: “A home draw would be nice, you're not fussy though.
“We’re in the quarter final of the FA Cup. We’ve gone deep into the competition. We’ve had a couple of fabulous nights and I quite enjoyed the third round against Mansfield where that was a different type of game to Old Trafford and tonight.
“To get to the quarter finals, you’ve got to go through different obstacles, hurdles and different challenges and that (Mansfield) was a huge challenge for us on that day coming off the back of the Covid situation locally and the team that we picked to go through.
“Then to go to Old Trafford and beat Tottenham. We are deep in the competition now."
Take a look at the latest news and transfer stories from the second tier, ahead of another busy midweek packed with fixtures:
1. Fresh deal for Cherries pair
Promising Bournemouth youngsters Jaidon Anthony and Jordan Zemura have both seen their deals extended until 2023, but the club exercising their option to lengthen their contracts by a year. The former has netted seven goals for the Cherries so far this season. (Club website) | Getty Images
2. Millwall snatch Stoke’s head of recruitment
Alex Aldridge has his role of Stoke City’s head of recruitment to take on the same role at Millwall. He’ll now be working alongside former Potters boss Gary Rowett at the Den. (Stoke Sentinel) | Getty Images
3. Pickering could land new deal
Blackburn Rovers are said to be readying talks with defender Harry Pickering over a new contract. He only joined the club from Crewe last year, but is expected to be handed a new deal as a reward for his fine form this season. (Football Insider) | Getty Images
4. Rooney rages at Rams’ misfortunes
Derby County boss Wayne Rooney has claimed that the club aren’t wanted in the Championship next season, as the threat of relegation continues to hang over their heads. His comments come following the side’s 1-0 loss to Cardiff on Tuesday night. The Rams remain eight points deep in the relegation zone. (BBC Sport) | Getty Images