Captain Paul Ince and youngsters Jonathan Greening and Robbie Stockdale are all doubtful after picking up knocks on Saturday.
Aussie Luke Wilkshire and new signing Michael Debeve could be drafted into the midfield if Ince and/or Greening fail to overcome their injuries, while Ginluca Festa stands by to replace Robbie Stockdale.
Speaking about the emergence of Boro youngsters, McClaren said he would have no qualms about throwing them in at the deep end.
“The younger players like Wilkshire, Stewart Downing and David Murphy have been in the squad because they deserve to be there, not because we don’t have the numbers or are down to the bare bones, if they play it’s because they are above other people and are there on merit.” he said.
Tonight's encounter is another big game for the club, with survival just around the corner, three points would make the end of the season a pleasant one for a change. Even a point against the Saint's would be a great result, as they are beginning to put in some fine performances.
Aussie Luke Wilkshire and new signing Michael Debeve could be drafted into the midfield if Ince and/or Greening fail to overcome their injuries, while Ginluca Festa stands by to replace Robbie Stockdale.
Speaking about the emergence of Boro youngsters, McClaren said he would have no qualms about throwing them in at the deep end.
“The younger players like Wilkshire, Stewart Downing and David Murphy have been in the squad because they deserve to be there, not because we don’t have the numbers or are down to the bare bones, if they play it’s because they are above other people and are there on merit.” he said.
Tonight's encounter is another big game for the club, with survival just around the corner, three points would make the end of the season a pleasant one for a change. Even a point against the Saint's would be a great result, as they are beginning to put in some fine performances.