TOMORROW sees Terry Venables' first home game in charge of Boro team selection, ironically against the team where he began his football career - Chelsea.
There is certainly no love lost between the two sides, with the pain of the FA and League cup defeats still felt on Teesside, so the first three-point display of the season at the Riverside would be a welcome early Christmas present.
Keith O'Niell, who made his comeback from injury against Sunderland last Saturday, is up for the challenge. He said: "We all know the importance of December in our fight to get out of trouble, and all the lads have enjoyed the week's training with Terry Venables. Let's hope it's rounded off tomorrow with the win everyone wants."
Chelsea have struggled away from home all season and have yet to record a win on their travels - but Phil Stamp is wary of writing off Chelsea.
"They have a host of great players and the goals they scored last Saturday underlines the talent, but we know what we have to do and with the fans behind us then we have every chance," he said.
Yet again the build-up is disrupted with suspensions as Fleming, Ricard, Marinelli and Ehiogu are all ruled out. But Venables accepts it is part and parcel of life at a football club.
"It's usually this time of year when you lose players with injuries or bans, but that's what the squad is for and the players who are selected will be eager for their chance," he said.
It promises to be quite a day and Venables is clearly ready to make his mark.
"I am looking forward to the experience and I just hope that the supporters enjoy their day," he said.
By Alistair Brownle
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