The Senegal striker joined Sven-Goran Eriksson`s side on loan from Fulham during the international break. He will challenge former Boro striker Yakubu, Darius Vassell and Martyn Waghorn for a starting role.
Eriksson`s attacking options could be boosted further by the return to fitness of Steve Howard. The veteran is vying to make his comeback from a 10-week absence with ankle ligament damage and could be included on the bench.
Defenders Bruno Berner and Miguel Vitor, midfielder Matt Oakley and winger Lloyd Dyer are also options for Eriksson, whose Manchester City side were thrashed 8-1 by Boro on his last visit to the Riverside in May 2008.
Patrick van Aanholt (thigh) is closing in on a return but this game looks like coming too soon for the on-loan Chelsea defender.
Source: PA
