Team News: George Friend returns for Middlesbrough

Middlesbrough boss Aitor Karanka has recalled George Friend to his starting lineup for the visit of Brighton & Hove Albion to the Riverside this afternoon.

Friend, who successfully worked his way back into contention following a knee injury, returns in favour of Ben Gibson, who started the 2-2 draw with Birmingham City last time out.

Kei Kamara, who also started the stalemate at St Andrew's, sustained ligament damage during the week and is replaced in the side by Jacob Butterfield.

Meanwhile, Seasiders boss Oscar Garcia has named just one change to his first XI from the 3-1 victory over Leicester City last week, with Adam El-Abd deputising for the injured Gordon Greer.

Middlesbrough: Given; Rhys Williams, Ayala, Woodgate, Friend; Whitehead, Adomah, Leadbitter, Butterfield; Carayol

Brighton & Hove Albion: Brezovan; Bruno, El-Abd, Upson, Ward; Ince, Bridcutt, Crofts; Conway, Barnes, Lopez