Middlesbrough face what is arguably their most important game of the season as they prepare to face Nottingham Forest on Monday night.

Defeat against Leeds United on Wednesday night saw Middlesbrough drop to within two goals of the Championship relegation zone as the coming weeks take on added significance.

The Teessiders are without a win since New Years Day with some fans questioning where the next three points are coming from.

Injuries have been a big problem for Jonathan Woodgate so far this term and it seems that he could face a few selection issues as he looks to end the club's winless run at the Riverside Stadium.

Here's the latest Middlesbrough injury news to come from Rockliffe Park.

Anfernee Dijksteel

The full-back has been out for around three months.

Dijksteel suffered a knee injury in the victory over Barnsley in November which has seen him miss a large chunk of the season.

The former Charlton man is expected to feature against Newcastle United under-23s this weekend as he steps up his recovery.

 

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Daniel Ayala

The Spanish defender hasn't featured since hobbling off in the News Years Day victory over Preston North End.

It was an ankle injury that forced him off and unfortunately the setback appears to be more serious than first thought.

Ayala is thought to be closing in on a return and could be available in the next couple of weeks.

Dael Fry

The defender has been out of action for a couple of weeks with a thigh injury.

It's hoped that Fry could return in the next couple of weeks after establishing himself as a key man in Middlesbrough's defence.

Patrick Roberts

The midfielder was hugely impressive after arriving at the club on loan from Manchester City.

Unfortunately, he was brought off during the 1-1 draw with Birmingham City after suffering with a hamstring injury.

Jonathan Woodgate is hopeful that Roberts could make his return in the next week or two.

George Friend

The experienced defender has missed much of the season so far with a hip injury.

However after making his return Friend hobbled off against Leeds United with what looked like a hamstring injury.

The defender will be monitored in the coming days but isn't expected to be a long-term absentee.

Can you identify these Middlesbrough players based on their date of birth and birthplace? Have a go!

 

Ashley Fletcher

Similarly to George Friend, Fletcher hobbled off against Leeds United with a hamstring injury.

The hope is that it won't prove to be too serious, however, with the striker hoping to return against Nottingham Forest.