O'Neil doubtful for Middlesborough

Middlesbrough skipper Gary O'Neil is a doubt for the npower Championship clash with Hull. The 27-year-old midfielder is struggling with a sore knee as Tony Mowbray's men attempt to bounce back from successive defeats by Swansea and Millwall.

However, keeper Danny Coyne returns to contention after recovering from a torn calf muscle, although he faces a fight to oust youngster Jason Steele.

Midfielder Kevin Thomson is still suffering from the after-effects of a broken leg while central defender Stephen McManus is a long-term absentee with ankle ligament damage.

Jonathan Franks (herniated disc), Willo Flood (knee), Rhys Williams (pelvis) and Matt Kilgallon (back) remain on the sidelines.

Source: PA

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