Boro dropped into the relegation zone over the weekend following Sunday’s 1-0 defeat by QPR and now have five games left to try and beat the drop. Our Boro writer Joe Nicholson has picked the starting XI he would choose to face The Lions – scroll down and flick through the pages to see if you agree:
5. LB: Hayden Coulson
Marvin Johnson has struggled at left-back in Boro's last two games so it may be time for Coulson to drop back into defence, even if the team lose some of his attacking attributes. Photo: Frank Reid
6. CDM: Jonny Howson
Has played at right-back in Spence's absence but struggled against QPR's Eberechi Eze last time out. Looks more comfortable in central midfield. Photo: Alex Livesey
7. CM: George Saville
Didn't have his best game against QPR but has shown signs he can be a valuable box-to-box midfielder under Warnock. Will be keen to impress against his former club. Photo: Alex Davidson
8. CM: Paddy McNair
Started on the bench against QPR when Boro missed his attacking drive from midfield. Photo: Frank Reid