Middlesbrough face a pivotal clash as they welcome Charlton Athletic to the Riverside Stadium.

The Teessiders are licking their wounds at present after falling to a heavy 4-0 defeat against Leeds United last weekend.

That result has contributed to Jonathan Woodgate's side sitting in 20th place in the Championship with just 17 points from 19 fixtures.

Middlesbrough need to start putting points on the board in order to avoid a relegation scrap, but with injuries and suspensions adding up it makes thing particularly difficult for the Boro boss.

Eight academy players formed part of the first team squad at Elland Road last week, and with more absentees expected this time around, it looks like Jonathan Woodgate's squad is down to the barest of bones.

But who will start against the Addicks? We take a look.

A number of selection woes mean that Jonathan Woodgate's side pretty much picks itself.

Darren Randolph is expected to be out for four weeks, meaning that Aynsley Pears will keep his spot in goal.

Paddy McNair started in central defence against Leeds United but after picking up his fifth booking of the season he will miss out.

That means that Jonny Howson could join Daniel Ayala and Dael Fry in defence.

Anfernee Dijksteel is another defender who is out of action, with the full-back facing three months on the sidelines.

That means that Marc Bola and Hayden Coulson could start on either flank.

With McNair out of action, Lewis Wing and Marcus Tavernier could be joined by Adam Clayton in midfield.

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The 29-year-old has been out of favour of late,  but with limited options at his disposal it could be the ideal opportunity to throw him back in.

In attack, Britt Assombalonga is expected to start the game after Jonathan Woodgate confirmed that he will be fit.

The striker will no doubt join Ashley Fletcher in attack, leaving Stephen Walker and Tyrone O'Neill with the opportunity to make an impression from the bench.