FOLARIN BALOGUN returns to Middlesbrough's starting line-up for this evening's crucial Championship game with Cardiff City.

Balogun replaces Josh Coburn in the only change to the side that started Saturday's 1-1 draw with Swansea.

The Arsenal loanee will partner Duncan Watmore in attack as Boro attempt to secure the victory that is surely essential if they are to keep their play-off hopes alive.

There is no Dael Fry in the squad, with the centre-half still unavailable because of a calf injury despite having returned to training yesterday.

There is also no Matt Crooks, with the midfielder still suspended after picking up 15 bookings this season.


MIDDLESBROUGH (3-5-2): Daniels; Dijksteel, Bamba, McNair; Jones, McGree, Howson, Tavernier, Bola; Watmore, Balogun.

Subs: Lumley (gk), Hall, Payero, Sporar, Peltier, Connolly, Coburn.


CARDIFF (4-4-2): Phillips; Drameh, Nelson, Denham, Ng; Wintle, Vaulks, Doyle, Colwill; Watters, Hugill.

Subs: Luhtra (gk), Flint, McGuinness, Semenyo, King, Harris, Collins.