Chris Wilder was due to face his former club Sheffield United at the weekend but the team instead had the day off after it was postponed due to Covid-19.
Middlesbrough will now have to wait till Jan 15 for their first league match against Reading, where they will be hoping to make it seven games unbeaten in a row.
A win against the Royals could see Boro return to the top six as they look to return to the Premier League in dramatic fashion.
Here are the best of today’s rumours...
1. Canaries target Quintilla loan deal
Norwich City are reportedly homing in on Villareal left-back Xavi Quintilla, with a loan deal with an option-to-buy on the cards. He began his career in the Barcelona youth academy, and joined his current club in 2017. (Marca) Photo: GABRIEL BOUYS
2. Owls' Simmonds interest stalls
Sheffield Wednesday are said to have taken a step back in their approach for Manchester City forward Keke Simmonds, with the player's wage demands said to have stalled progress on a potential deal. (Football League World) Photo: Charlotte Tattersall
3. Hatters to battle Black Cats for ex-Man Utd youngster
Luton Town look set to rival Sunderland for ex-Manchester United youngster Demetri Mitchell. The versatile left-back was released by the Red Devils at the end of last season. (Sunderland Echo) Photo: Alex Morton
4. Villa could hijack Blades deal
Aston Villa are said to be ready to launch a bid to sign Bournemouth 'keeper Aaron Ramsdale, and hijack Sheffield United's attempts to bring their former stopper back to Bramall Lane. (Daily Mail) Photo: Jan Kruger