Boro went into the international break reeling from a dispiriting 2-0 loss to Hull City, but will be confident in their abilities to pick themselves up and start their climb up the table, as they aim to battle for the play-off places.
Speaking ahead of the game, Boro star Marcus Tavernier gave an insight into his experience of being a professional footballer, and revealed: “It‘s surreal. When you were younger you wanted players' autographs and now you’ve got little kids coming up to you saying you’re their favourite player - it’s unbelievable.
“I remember seeing someone have my name on the back of their top and I could not believe it. My name on the back of someone’s top, number 62. I thought they only made two copies and they were mine!
“When you’re a young kid you’re looking at the first team and the big players; there’s Grant [Leadbitter], Adama [Traore] was here then, Victor Valdes walked through the door and you’re thinking ‘he’s played with Messi’ - the best player on the planet.
“But when you train you realise they see you as someone who can play in this team - you’re not there just to make up the numbers, you’re there to take someone else’s shirt, so that was my aim once I got in training with the first team.”
Take a look at the latest stories from the second-tier, as the anticipation for this weekend's action continues to build:
5. Rovers must cough up cash to keep star
Blackburn Rovers look likely to have to break their wage structure to keep star man Ben Brereton Diaz at the club, as interest continues to grow in the Chile international. He's recently been linked with Sevilla, after scoring 10 goals in 11 league games already this season. (The 72) Photo: PAOLO AGUILAR
6. Ex-Rovers man finds new club
Ex-Blackburn Rovers man Stefan Mols has found a new club, with Northern Premier League side Warrington Town confirming their capture. The Spanish midfielder, who started his career in Rovers' academy, made just one senior appearance for the club. (Club website) Photo: Marc Atkins
7. Blades snap up starlet
Sheffield United are said to have agreed a deal to sign Brazilian youngster Fernando Macedo, according to reports. The 17-year-old is understood to have signed a professional contract with the Blades. (Sport Witness) Photo: George Wood
8. Grimes could stay at Swansea
Swansea City's CEO has revealed he's still hopeful of convincing skipper Matt Grimes to sign a new deal, ahead of its expiry next summer. The in-demand playmaker was of interest to the likes of Fulham, Watford and Brighton in the last transfer window. (Football League World) Photo: Ashley Allen